Lumbar discectomy is a surgical procedure performed to remove herniated or damaged discs in the lower back. After this surgery, it is important to follow certain precautions to ensure proper healing and minimize the risk of complications. Here are some things to avoid after a lumbar discectomy.
1. Strenuous activities: Avoid lifting heavy objects, engaging in intense physical activities, or excessive bending or twisting of the spine. These movements can strain the surgical site and impede the healing process.
2. Sitting or standing for prolonged periods: Prolonged sitting or standing can put pressure on the lower back and strain the surgical area. It is important to take frequent breaks to move around and change positions.
3. Driving too soon: It is advised to refrain from driving for at least a week or until pain and discomfort have significantly reduced. The movement involved in driving can put strain on the surgical area.
4. Ignoring postoperative instructions: Following the surgeon’s instructions is crucial for a successful recovery. Taking prescribed medications, attending physical therapy sessions, and following any physical restrictions or restrictions on driving are essential.
5. Neglecting proper posture: Maintaining good posture is key to reducing strain on the lower back. Avoid slouching or sitting in positions that place excessive pressure on the surgical site.
6. Engaging in high-impact exercises: Activities such as running, jumping, or participating in contact sports should be avoided during the recovery period. These can cause excessive strain on the spine and increase the risk of injury.
7. Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption: Smoking and heavy alcohol consumption can interfere with the healing process, as they inhibit the flow of oxygen and nutrients to the surgical area. It is best to refrain from these habits to facilitate proper healing.
Remember, every individual’s recovery may vary, and it is essential to consult with a healthcare professional for personalized guidance. By following these guidelines, patients can promote a smoother recovery and reduce the risk of complications after a lumbar discectomy.
Is the incision for a discectomy painful?
Physical therapy may be necessary for some people. The recovery time varies from 1 to 4 weeks depending on the underlying disease treated and your general health. You may feel pain at the site of the incision. The original pain may not be completely relieved immediately after surgery.
Is discectomy surgery painful?
It is very common to have back pain following microdiscectomy surgery. This is incisional and muscular pain and should slowly improve as the wound and muscles heal Any long-term chronic back pain you have had is unlikely to improve following microdiscectomy.
Is a lumbar discectomy painful after surgery?
On the first day after surgery, pain levels can vary from mild to severe and may become more when the effect of the strong pain-relieving medications wear off and/or the nerve(s) starts to heal.
What can I do 2 weeks after discectomy?
About 2 weeks after lumbar microdiscectomy, most patients begin to experience significantly less pain and higher energy level. A gradual return to more low impact activities is encouraged. Contact sports, heavy lifting, and other strenuous activities may still be avoided.
Can herniated disc be completely cured?
Unfortunately, there is no clear-cut answer as to whether your disc herniation will fully heal. With treatment, a disc herniation can dry up, shrink or go away. Your body may have an autoimmune response and aid in healing the herniation.Oct 6, 2022
What is the fastest way to heal a herniated disc?
Self care: In most cases, the pain from a herniated disc will get better within a couple days and completely resolve in 4 to 6 weeks. Restricting your activity, ice/heat therapy, and taking over the counter medications will help your recovery.
Is a herniated disc a lifelong problem?
If left untreated, a herniated disc in the back can cause chronic pain and occasional discomfort. It can lead to permanent nerve damage if it is not treated. Although chronic pain is more common, nerve damage can still be possible.
Is a herniated disc likely to happen again?
There is always the chance (about 10-15 percent) that the same disc may herniate again. It is most likely to occur in the first six weeks after surgery, but it can occur anytime. You might need a second operation if this occurs.
How do you permanently treat a herniated disc?
In nearly all cases, surgeons can remove just the protruding portion of the disk. Rarely, the entire disk must be removed. In these cases, the vertebrae might need to be fused with a bone graft. To allow the process of bone fusion, which takes months, metal hardware is placed in the spine to provide spinal stability.
