At Northwest Spine Surgery in Portland, OR, our spine specialists, including Dr. Kendrick Khoo, a fellowship-trained spine surgeon from the University of California Davis, and Dr. Serena Liu, a spine specialist with an orthopedic surgery residency from the University of Rochester and a spine surgery fellowship from the University of Maryland, brings advanced expertise in posterior lumbar fusion.
Do’s for a Smooth Lumbar Fusion Recovery
Following best practices during your recovery can help you heal faster and minimize complications. Here are some essential steps to take:
- Follow Post-Operative Instructions: Adhering to your surgeon’s guidelines ensures a safe and efficient recovery.
- Attend Physical Therapy: Supervised exercises help strengthen your back and restore mobility.
- Use Proper Posture: Keeping your spine aligned reduces stress on healing tissues.
- Wear a Supportive Brace (If Advised): Some patients benefit from a brace to stabilize the spine during early recovery.
- Maintain a Healthy Diet: Nutrient-rich foods promote bone healing and tissue repair.
Incorporating these habits into your routine can support your body’s healing process and reduce the risk of complications.
Don’ts: What to Avoid After Spinal Fusion
Certain actions can slow down your recovery or even lead to further injury. Here’s what to steer clear of:
- Avoid Heavy Lifting: Lifting anything over 10 pounds can strain the healing spine.
- No Twisting or Bending: Sudden movements can stress the fused vertebrae unnecessarily.
- Do Not Skip Follow-Up Appointments: Regular check-ins help monitor healing and address concerns.
- Say No to Smoking: Smoking impairs bone fusion and slows down recovery.
- Avoid Long Periods of Sitting: Regularly standing up and walking prevents stiffness and improves circulation.
Following these precautions will help prevent setbacks and promote a smoother healing process.
How Long Does It Take to Recover from Lumbar Fusion?
Recovery from lumbar fusion surgery typically takes one to three months, during which patients often participate in physical rehabilitation. To promote healing and prevent complications, it is crucial to avoid heavy lifting, bending, and twisting during this period.
Preventing Long-Term Complications After Lumbar Fusion
Recovering from lumbar fusion surgery doesn’t stop when initial healing is complete. Long-term spine health depends on maintaining good posture, regular low-impact exercise, and attending follow-up visits. Patients who prioritize these habits are more likely to enjoy lasting pain relief and improved mobility.
Get Expert Care for Your Posterior Lumber Fusion
If you’re considering lumbar fusion surgery, expert care is essential for achieving the best results. Contact Northwest Spine Surgery in Portland, OR, at 503-253-4000 to learn more about your surgical options and personalized treatment plans.
