After spine surgery, your journey to a better back has just begun. There are several steps you can take to help your body heal faster including staying hydrated and the foods you eat. Physical therapy is also a vital part of the road to recovery.1 Physical therapy and rehabilitation essentials can restore your health and the strength of your spine.
When to Start Physical Therapy
The timing depends on the procedure you underwent. You may start physical therapy while in the hospital or in spinal decompression surgeries such as microdiscectomy, it could be 2-4 weeks. However, with more complicated surgeries like a spine fusion, you may have to wait about 6-8 weeks.
The Phases of Physical Therapy
The rehabilitation phases post-spine surgery generally follow a progressive approach tailored to individual needs.
- Initial Phase: This lasts approximately 4-6 weeks, focuses on pain management, gentle mobilization, and preventing complications like blood clots or muscle atrophy. Modalities such as heat, ice, and electrical stimulation may be employed to alleviate pain and swelling while gradually introducing basic movements to maintain flexibility and prevent stiffness.
- Intermediate Phase: The rehabilitation shifts to the intermediate phase in 6-12 weeks. This phase emphasizes strengthening exercises to improve core stability, posture, and muscle endurance. Therapists incorporate various techniques such as manual therapy, therapeutic exercises, and aquatic therapy to address specific deficits and enhance functional abilities.
- Advanced Phase: From 12 weeks on to several months post-surgery, the focus is on optimizing strength, flexibility, and overall physical conditioning. Therapists introduce advanced exercises, functional activities, and sport-specific training to simulate real-life demands and promote a safe return to daily activities, work, and recreational pursuits.
Throughout these phases, education plays a vital role in empowering patients with knowledge about proper body mechanics, posture, and ergonomic principles to prevent re-injury and promote long-term spinal health. Remember, it's essential to consult with a healthcare professional for personalized guidance on the type of surgery and the rehabilitation program that is best suited to your condition.
AUTHOR: Dr. Payam Moazzaz is a board-certified orthopedic spine surgeon in California specializing in robotic-assisted minimally invasive spine surgery.
Reference:
1. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5506300/