2nd spinal surgery

September 21, 2013 6:39 PM

Had my second operation yesterday. First was an unsuccessful laminectomy in May,2011. This one is a neurostimulator. Anyone have ideas for a good rehab regimen and/orpitfalls to look out for?
posted by scottymac to Health & Fitness (4 answers total)

I think you haven't gotten any answers because this really is a question for your surgeon, not folks on the internet.
posted by Specklet at 12:39 AM on September 22, 2013 [1 favorite]

Response by poster: Of this I am aware, but have received nothing in the manner of exercise advice from the surgeon. I do wish to get active as soon as possible.
posted by scottymac at 6:42 AM on September 22, 2013

Best answer: Exercise advice would be the physical therapy department. Has your surgeon or any of nurses mentioned a referral to post-surgical PT? Or schedueling an appointment to see a physical therapist? If not, that's something I'd ask your surgeon directly.
posted by moxiequz at 8:58 AM on September 22, 2013

Best answer: I had an unsuccessful laminectomy followed by a successful spinal fusion a few years after. The thing that helped me the second time was getting active when it was appropriate, not as soon as possible. I went back to work too soon the first time and ended up paying for it. I have seen many others go through the same experience and have more than one followup surgery.

Please follow the advice from moxiequz and inquire about your PT regimen. That should be a normal part of the process for determining your return to work status. Once you are back at work, pay attention to any pain you might be having and work with your manager/HR to get any accommodations you might need.

Other pitfalls would include any pain meds you might have been given. Getting off of those as soon as you are able is highly recommended.

Good luck with your recovery. Hope you are feeling great soon.
posted by sciatica at 2:09 PM on September 22, 2013