After undergoing lumbar arthrodesis or fusion surgery, it is very important to carry out a proper rehabilitation process in order to recover fully. As specialists in the spinal column, we would like to tell you about some of the most effective exercises.
Lumbar fusion surgery, or arthrodesis, is performed in order to fuse two or more vertebrae in a way that will stabilize them permanently. This type of operation is recommended for pathologies of the spine such as lumbar disc herniations, vertebral fractures, spinal instability, severe facet osteoarthritis, or to remedy a failed previous lumbar spine surgery.
Rehabilitation at home after lumbar fusion surgery
Normally, this surgery requires a hospital stay of between 2 to 5 days, depending on the patient's condition. In most cases, within a few hours after surgery, the patient is already able to walk a little. After discharge from the hospital, our medical advice is for the patient to follow a program of rehabilitation specifically adapted to the type of fusion and the pathology they had been suffering. This can be done at home and/or in a physical therapy center.
In the case of Instituto Clavel, our rehabilitation program is designed so that patients do part of the program at home, combined with sessions at IC Rehabilitation, our center dedicated to physiotherapy and rehabilitation for the spine. Thanks to the excellent coordination and communication between our neurosurgeons and physiotherapists, we can offer each patient the best personalized care and the most appropriate treatment for their situation.
Once the patient is home after surgery, we recommend that they take several short walks each day, the length of the walk can be adapted according to the condition of the patient. In addition to this, the physiotherapists at IC Rehabilitation will devise a program for the patient to carry out in their center, combining manual therapy with active exercises.
Normally, it takes at least 6 months for the definitive fusion to occur, however, all patients can return to their work and daily activity by between 8 to 12 weeks after the surgery. Exercise or physical activity should be re-introduced gradually, as Laia Tarrés, the Director of IC Rehabilitation, explains.
Regarding exact content of the exercise plan, it is important to bear in mind that our way of working is totally personalized, so it can vary a lot from one patient to another, depending on their physical condition both before and after surgery. If the patient’s problem was caused by herniated discs, their needs are not the same as a patient who had a veterbral fracture, or one who has undergone a prior failed surgery.
Exercise and physical activity after lumbar fusion surgery
How should you incorporate movement back into your life after suffering a spinal injury or having surgery? At IC Rehabilitation, we always encourage our patients to get moving and adapt their movement to activities of daily living from the beginning.
In most cases, the patient can begin to move naturally within 4 to 5 weeks after a spinal operation. For example, if you are a regular gym user, you can start using an elliptical trainer, a simple machine that works movement of the entire body without impact. You can also take advantage of all the material available in the gym for practicing the exercises that the physiotherapist or therapist has prescribed for you.
Exercising in the pool can also be beneficial for recovery and rehabilitation. When you are in the pool, even exercises such as running and jumping have reduced impact so you can do them without fear of injury.
Another kind of physical activity that you can include in your recovery period would be posture exercises. Yoga and Pilates are activities that prioritize and focus on toning the spine and spinal mobility, as well as strengthening your arms and legs.
As always, whether you are suffering from low back pain, or if you are planning to have lumbar fusion surgery, or have already had back surgery, we recommend that you follow the guidance of a specialist for carrying out your rehabilitation exercises or any kind of physical activity. This will ensure that you avoid risks and the recovery will be much more effective.
If you have any questions about fusion surgery or recovery, don't hesitate to write to us! We will be happy to help you get back your quality of life.
Categories: Spine treatments, Spine pathologies, Rehabilitation