Proper posture after spine surgery is vital to protect healing, reduce strain, and support long-term recovery.
Recovering from spine surgery is a gradual process. Following the steps below helps protect your spine, reduce complications, and speed up your return to daily life. These instructions cover the first 6 weeks after surgery.
⚠️ Important: Always follow your surgeon’s personalized advice. This guide provides general information and should complement, not replace, your doctor’s specific instructions.
General Guidelines (First 6 Weeks)
- No lifting > 10 lb (4–5 kg)
- Avoid bending, twisting, or rotating your neck/back
- Change positions every 30 minutes (don’t sit/stand too long)
- Start with short daily walks; gradually increase time/distance
- No smoking or nicotine—slows healing
- Begin physical therapy only when advised (often at 6 weeks)
Pain & Medication Management
- Take prescribed pain medicine & muscle relaxers as directed
- Taper use as pain improves
- Do not drive while on narcotics or muscle relaxers
- Prevent constipation: drink fluids, eat fiber, use stool softeners/laxatives if prescribed
Fusion Surgery – Additional Precautions
- Avoid NSAIDs (Advil, Motrin, Aleve) for 6–12 weeks (check your surgeon’s timeframe)
- Wear your brace or cervical collar as directed (usually 4–6 weeks)
- For the first 3 months, discuss antibiotics before dental work with your dentist & surgeon
Wound & Incision Care
- Keep incision clean and dry; avoid soaking until cleared
- Sutures/staples often removed at 2–3 weeks
- Call the office for redness, swelling, drainage, fever, or worsening pain
Activity Timeline
- Weeks 1–2: Short walks, limit sitting/standing to 20–30 minutes
- Weeks 2–6: Increase walk duration, begin gentle exercises (with guidance)
- After Week 6: Begin physical therapy, discuss return to work/exercise
⚠️ When to Call the Surgeon
Seek urgent care if you experience:
- New/worsening numbness or weakness
- Loss of bladder/bowel control
- Severe or unrelieved pain
- Calf swelling/tenderness (possible clot)
Nutrition Tips
- Prioritize protein-rich foods for muscle repair
- Take calcium + vitamin D (if recommended) for bone health
- Stay hydrated
FAQs
When can I shower?
Usually after incision is dry (≈5–7 days). No soaking until cleared.
When can I drive?
Only once off narcotics and able to safely check mirrors/do emergency stops (≈2–6 weeks).
When can I go back to work?
Desk jobs: often 4–8 weeks; physical jobs: 3–6 months, depending on surgery type.
Note: These are general guidelines. Always follow your surgeon’s specific instructions and contact our office with any questions or concerns.
