Advice after spinal fusion (spondylodesis) of the vertebrae in the back

Advice after the surgery

• You can get out of bed 4 hours after the surgery.
• You may gently move your back, if possible.
• Gradually increase the range of motion of your back.
• Do not excessively bend or hyperextend your back, such as when putting on shoes or reaching for something in a high cabinet.
• You may sit if it does not cause too much pain. Gradually increase the duration of sitting.
• You should refrain from smoking before and after the surgery. Smoking hinders bone healing and increases the risk of medical complications.
• Alternate between walking, sitting, and lying down. Walk as much as you can.

General advice after spinal fusion

• Avoid excessive sitting during the first 3 months.
• Continue alternating between walking, sitting, and lying down. Change positions if it causes pain.
• In many cases, you can gradually return to work after 6 weeks. This depends on the nature of your work. Stop working if your back becomes excessively painful. Consult with your occupational physician to determine when you can resume work.
• If you have good sensation and strength in your legs and back, you can resume driving and cycling after 6 weeks. Gradually reintroduce these activities, starting with short rides. If you have doubts, consult with your doctor.
• Try to maintain good posture with your back during the first 3 months.
• It is advisable to walk frequently. Try to increase the distance you walk each day. Take it slower if you experience excessive pain.
• You usually do not require physiotherapy after this surgery. If you have questions or if the recovery is not going well, please call the Physical Therapy or Neurosurgery department at HMC. You can reach the Physical Therapy department at 088 979 23 23, and the Neurosurgery department at 088 979 43 65.

Exercises after spinal fusion

For all exercises, the level of pain determines the limit for exercising. Never exceed what the physiotherapist has indicated.

Starting position: The bed is flat, you lie on your back with one pillow under your head.

1.    Press your knees into the bed while lying on your back. Contract your thigh muscles. Do this at least 10 times every hour.

2.       Lift each knee alternately. Move the knee towards your nose. Do not move the hip beyond a 90° angle (do not force it!). Do this exercise 3 times a day, repeating it 10 times each time.

3.       Keep the legs bent and close together. Then, pull in your belly button and lift your buttocks upward. Do this exercise 3 times a day, repeating it 10 times each time.

Questions?

If you have any further questions, please call the Physical Therapy department at HMC at 088 979 23 23.