You had a lumbar fusion. During this procedure, your healthcare provider locked together (fused) some of the bones in your spine. This limits the movement of these bones to help relieve your pain. It also restore the normal curve of your spine. Your surgeon will give you recovery guidelines to follow. But below are general tips for recovery. Here’s what you need to know about home care after a spinal fusion.
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Arrange your household to keep the items you need within reach.
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During the first few days, don't go up and down stairs. It's best to have a bed on the ground floor.
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Remove electrical cords, throw rugs, and anything else that may cause you to fall.
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Use a walker or handrails until your balance, flexibility, and strength improve. A detachable bed rail can make moving in bed much easier. And remember to ask for help from others when you need it.
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Free up your hands so that you can use them to keep balance. Use a fanny pack, apron, or pockets to carry things. Be sure not to carry too much at once.
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Don’t bend or twist at the waist, or raise your hands over your head for the first 2 weeks after your surgery. Use a long-handled "grabber" that allows you to pick up items from the floor without bending.
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Don’t lift anything heavier than 4 pounds for the first 2 weeks after surgery.
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Don’t sit for more than 30 to 45 minutes at a time. Take frequent short walks. They are the key to your recovery.
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Don’t drive until your healthcare provider says it’s OK. And never drive while you are taking opioidss or other medicines that make you drowsy.
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Nap if you are tired, but don’t stay in bed all day.
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Use chairs with arms. The arms make it easier for you to stand up and sit down.
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Ask your healthcare provider about physical therapy if your provider hasn't yet given you instructions on this..