In addition, if there was any nerve damage, it may take up to 2 years for the nerve tissue to heal and return to normal. As we said, in most cases, the vertebrae begin to fuse within 3 to 6 months after surgery.
However, there are factors that can complicate this process and prolong recovery time in some patients, including:. Richard Hostin , Dr. Shyam Kishan , and Dr. Kathryn Wiesman , have the expertise and surgical skills necessary to diagnose and treat these cases. So, if you have been told that there is no hope, call Southwest Scoliosis Institute for an evaluation at or visit our contact page today!
If you or your loved one is suffering from degenerative disc disease, a herniated disc, or another complex spine condition, there is hope. We can help. Call Southwest Scoliosis Institute at to make an appointment today.
So, most people think about how long does it take to recover from a spinal fusion surgery? The first few days after Spinal Surgery Immediately after spinal fusion surgery, recovery begins with a stay in the hospital for at least the first days. At this stage of recovery, there are several important activity restrictions that patients need to follow: No bending at the back. Bending at the knee and hips is fine.
No lifting anything weighing more than about pounds. Avoid even routine activities if twisting of the spine is involved. Driving is not allowed. As medications during this period may cause sleepiness and decreased coordination. Factors that can slow recovery from Spinal Fusion Surgery As we said, in most cases, the vertebrae begin to fuse within 3 to 6 months after surgery. Search for:. Recent Comments. The worst pain is generally over by 4 weeks after surgery. Pain is likely to continue to decrease gradually, but some patients continue to have pain 3 to 6 months after surgery.
During this time period of about 1 to 3 months after the surgery, the lumbar fusion bone mass is becoming established. While the fusion is growing together and strengthening, these movements should continue to be avoided to prevent stress at the fused segments:. If a back brace was previously prescribed to help immobilize the back, it may be advised to continue wearing it up to 3 months after surgery.
See When to Consider a Back Brace. As pain gradually alleviates and the energy level rises, it is good to gradually increase activity levels. As long as it has been cleared by the surgeon, the patient can start doing more of the following:. By 4 to 6 weeks after lumbar fusion surgery , most patients are cleared to return to school or work that does not involve physical labor.
This is common. Try to avoid constipation and straining with bowel movements. You may want to take a fibre supplement every day. If you have not had a bowel movement after a couple of days, ask your doctor about taking a mild laxative. Take pain medicines exactly as directed. If the doctor gave you a prescription medicine for pain, take it as prescribed. If you are not taking a prescription pain medicine, ask your doctor if you can take an over-the-counter medicine.
If your doctor prescribed antibiotics, take them as directed. Do not stop taking them just because you feel better. You need to take the full course of antibiotics. If you think your pain medicine is making you sick to your stomach: Take your medicine after meals unless your doctor has told you not to.
Ask your doctor for a different pain medicine. You will be given specific instructions about how to care for the cuts incisions the doctor made.
The instructions will depend on the type of materials used to close the cut. Do back exercises as instructed by your doctor. Your doctor may advise you to work with a physiotherapist to improve the strength and flexibility of your back.
To reduce stiffness and help sore muscles, use a warm water bottle, a heating pad set on low, or a warm cloth on your back. Do not put heat right over the incision. Do not go to sleep with a heating pad on your skin. For example, call if: You passed out lost consciousness.
You have sudden chest pain and shortness of breath, or you cough up blood. You are unable to move a leg at all. Call your doctor or nurse call line now or seek immediate medical care if: You have pain that does not get better after you take pain pills.
You have new or worse symptoms in your legs or buttocks. Symptoms may include: Numbness or tingling. You lose bladder or bowel control.
You have loose stitches, or your incision comes open. You have blood or fluid draining from the incision. You have signs of infection, such as: Increased pain, swelling, warmth, or redness. Pus draining from the incision.
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