There's a reason why people use the word "backbone" to describe the crucial sense of support something provides—something that cannot be done without. Our backs are the part of our bodies that allow us to perform nearly all daily activities. From walking and dancing to bathing and just putting on a pair of pants, the healthier our back is, the easier it is to go about our business as usual. And, if you’re wondering What happens if I bend after spinal fusion surgery?, it's important to follow all medical advice during the recovery process to ensure that we heal as quickly and completely as possible.
How Long After Back Surgery Can You Bend Over?
Spinal fusion is a common form of back surgery used to treat several kinds of back problems, including scoliosis, vertebral weakness, and herniated discs. In younger and/or more physically fit individuals, recovery time can range anywhere from 4–6 weeks. Older patients or those with lower fitness levels can take up to 4–6 months to heal properly. While a patient can hardly control their age, and there's little that can be done to improve fitness levels by the time you're discussing surgery, there are still several aspects of recovery that are within the patient's control, which we will discuss in detail below.
What Can You Not Do After Spinal Fusion?
Your surgeon and physical therapist will tell you the specific Dos and Don'ts of your surgery when the time comes, but there are some general guidelines to follow post-surgery in order to help your body heal.
Avoid Bending, Lifting, and Twisting
Some recommendations are going to be similar to what people tell you to do even when your back is healthy. For example, avoid lifting heavy objects if possible. If you absolutely have to, be sure to lift by bending your knees, not your back. It follows that you should try to avoid bending, lifting, and twisting with your back muscles at all for the first few weeks after surgery (consult with your surgeon to determine an exact timeline).
Do Not Try to Exercise Before Cleared
After a lumbar fusion surgery, you need to allow the fusion an adequate amount of time to heal and progress before testing its strength through exercise and rigorous physical therapy. A few months after surgery, you will be expected to follow a routine your physical therapist provides to you, and exercise will help strength in your back, but you must wait until the fusion itself wouldn't be at risk of damage.
Don't Rush the Process
You may be tempted to try certain activities earlier than recommended, especially if you were active before your surgery. Ignore that temptation, even if you feel like your body is recovering more quickly than the timeline your physician gave you. Keep in mind, your pain medication can and will manage your pain to a certain extent as long as you're taking it properly, but even if you don't feel pain when performing some activities, you can still damage your spinal fusion if you forget to be patient with yourself. Even something as simple as climbing a staircase within a few days after surgery can put unnecessary stress on the fusion site.
Can You Damage a Spinal Fusion?
Yes, you absolutely can. While methods for spine surgery have significantly improved over the years, a patient's recovery still depends on their own diligence and dedication, so following the Dos and Don'ts of spinal fusion recovery is a must. For example, if you break an arm, you're likely going to protect it in a cast or sling and keep from using it until it's had time to heal, right? Putting undue stress on a bone that needs healing often exacerbates an injury.
Apply that same concept to recovery from spinal surgeries. Avoid bending at all after a lumbar fusion if possible, as bending or twisting can interfere with the way the fusion heals and even damage the work that was done.
Spinal Fusion Surgery Recovery—Texas Spine Center
As previously mentioned, follow the advice of your surgeon and/or physical therapist to ensure that you have a speedy and effective recovery. The better you adhere to the recovery plan, the sooner you'll be able to return to your normal daily activities!
If you have back problems that are interfering with your daily life, talk to your doctor and medical team. They will work closely with you to determine the best course of action to help you enjoy life the way you want to.
