1-Walk: short, frequent outings. Walk short distances each day, progressively increasing them. Walking is key to your recovery as it strengthens muscles and prevents muscle atrophy.
2-Do not lift anything heavier than 4 kilograms during the first two weeks after surgery. In general, avoid lifting anything that feels too “heavy” or could cause your back to bend. Avoid high-impact exercises. You may use a stationary bike. Activity will gradually increase from weeks 4–6 onward.
3-Do not drive while taking opioid-containing pain medications (e.g., tramadol, codeine).
4-Return to work: will be discussed after surgery on an individual basis.
5-In general, most patients undergoing a one-level lumbar discectomy with a “desk job” can return to work approximately 2–6 weeks after surgery. However, you may be able to return sooner if you feel physically and mentally well and do not require narcotic medications at work.
6-You do not need to wear a cervical collar unless otherwise instructed.
7-For sleeping, it is best to lie on your back or on your side with a pillow that keeps your cervical spine aligned.
8-Do not wet the wound until 8 days have passed after the procedure (for a first-time surgery) or 16 days if it is a reoperation. Moisture may increase the risk of the wound opening.
9-Exposing the wound to sunlight can cause hypertrophic scarring: after the first 15 days post-surgery, if the wound will be uncovered, apply sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) to the area for at least 9–12 months.
10-Avoid nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen or aspirin for three months after surgery in the case of a spinal fusion, unless the surgical team or other specialists deem them necessary for other conditions. NSAIDs can affect spinal fusion.
11-Try to avoid smoking. It negatively affects postoperative recovery.
12-It is not unusual to experience muscle tightness, pain, or intermittent tingling in the affected arm(s) or shoulder(s) after surgery and for several weeks. Do not be alarmed. This is due to the prolonged compression of the nerve, which now needs time to recover.
13-In the first days after surgery you may have difficulty swallowing. This is due to the surgical approach. Do not be alarmed; it will resolve.
14-In the first days after surgery you may experience hoarseness, which is usually temporary.
Sources:
Dr. Vicenç Gilete, Neurosurgeon & Spine Surgeon.
