Minimally invasive spine surgery utilizes modern technology and techniques to reduce recovery time, minimize pain, and lower potential complication risks. Minimally invasive spine surgery offers significantly less downtime than other kinds of surgical procedures – but like any surgical procedure still requires a thoughtful approach in order to heal in an optimal manner. As providers of minimally invasive spine surgery Florida residents trust, we have a lot of experience in this arena, so let us tell it to you straight: Being prepared for the recovery process is integral to setting you up for a smoother recovery and ensuring that you heal the way you’re supposed to. This article discusses some tips for you to safely recover from minimally invasive spinal surgery.
Tips For Recovering From Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery
Minimally invasive surgery should take a shorter amount of time to recover from, but it’s still a major surgical procedure. Here’s what you should expect when recovering from this type of surgery and some things to keep in mind about optimizing the recovery process to get you back on your feet and feeling your best as soon as possible:
- Understand exactly what the procedure entails: Make sure you thoroughly comprehend the specifics of your procedure before it is actually performed. Consult with your physician regarding any questions you may have – they should tell you what it entails, what kind of surgery you’re having, why you should have this procedure, and what you should expect when recovering. These details will help you make mental and physical preparations for recovery.
- Actually follow your doctor’s instructions: Your surgeon and medical team should give you specific recovery instructions tailored to your individual condition. This should include information about activity restrictions, wound care, follow-up appointments, and medication management. It may seem obvious, but don’t disregard these instructions! It may prolong your recovery time and even result in further injury.
- Handling pain and discomfort: After your surgery, you may be prescribed medications to assist with managing discomfort and pain. Managing pain is one of the biggest parts of recovery – always take your prescribed medications as directed unless you have consulted with your medical team. Other pain management methods, like heat therapy, ice packs, or gentle massage, can help with the pain, but anything else you do should be okayed in advance with your medical team.
- Rest, rest, rest: Rest is the number one aspect of healing after surgery. Avoid any activities that strain your back and follow the doctor’s recommendations regarding activity restrictions. Make sure you have an ergonomically friendly and comfortable sleeping environment, and try to take it as easy as possible. You don’t need to be in bed all day, but allow your body to heal by avoiding heavy lifting and strenuous activities.
- Gradually resume physical activity: After the initial rest period, you should start incorporating gentle physical activity that supports your recovery. Your team should guide you on when and how to safely resume activity.
- Keep an eye on complications: While your risk of complications is lower compared to open surgery, there are complications inherent with any kind of surgery. Monitor signs of infection or unusual symptoms.
Contact Us Today
It may sound simple – Follow your doctor’s instructions and attend follow-up appointments – But you’d be surprised how many people hinder their recovery after minimally invasive spinal surgery by ignoring these tips. ACME Spine & Orthopedics is a top spinal clinic in Florida. Call us to learn more about minimally invasive spine surgery Florida trusts and book an appointment today.