Spinal Fusion Recovery: What to Expect the First Three Months

If you’ve decided to have spinal fusion surgery, chances are you spent a lot of time researching the operation so you know what to expect. But what happens after? How long will you be in the hospital? And what does recovery really look like?

Of course, every person’s experience is different. But recovery generally looks pretty similar for most patients, especially during those first few months. 

So read on to learn what to expect during the first three months of spinal fusion recovery.

Post-spinal-fusion hospital stay

How long will you stay in the hospital after your operation? The answer depends on several factors, including how complex your surgery was. Your overall health and other existing conditions can also play a role. 

In most cases, spinal fusion patients stay in the hospital for a few days after surgery. Some people need a week or more. Depending on what’s available in your area, you may be able to spend a little time in a rehabilitation facility before heading home.

Pain management

Most spinal fusion patients experience pain, especially during the initial recovery period. Your surgeon and healthcare team should work together to develop a pain management plan. It’s crucial to try to stay ahead of the pain as much as possible, especially when you’re in the hospital.

Your medical team may prescribe more than one medication in an attempt to minimize pain without overusing opioids. And don’t forget about other pain relief options, like ice packs and gentle movement/stretching.

As your recovery progresses, you’ll likely experience less pain. Your doctor will probably plan a transition from stronger to milder pain medications, and perhaps even non-prescription options.

Physical therapy and mobility

A significant part of the recovery process involves slowly rebuilding your mobility and strength. You’ll probably start out with light activities such as walking and gentle stretches. Your surgeon will probably restrict more intense movement, such as lifting more than 8 pounds and bending or twisting the spine, for the first few months.

You will probably be referred to a physical therapist. If you’re not, you can request PT to support your recovery. An experienced physical therapist can help you learn safe exercises to improve your flexibility, strength, and posture. 

Ideally, you should work with a physical therapist who has experience with spinal fusion recovery. If you’re not able to find someone in your area, feel free to reach out to our team for 1:1 coaching. We’ll develop a safe, effective exercise program to support your recovery.

Bracing

Your surgeon may have you wear a brace for a while to provide extra support while your spine heals and fuses. Not every patient needs a brace, and bracing after surgery isn’t as common as it used to be. And for those who do, the time requirements vary. Your surgeon will decide whether a brace is appropriate during your recovery.

Follow-up appointments

You’ll attend several follow-up appointments with your surgeon so they can monitor your progress. Your medical team will determine the number and frequency of the appointments. You may get X-rays or other imaging so the surgeon can assess the success of the surgery and the overall stability of your spine.

Physical activity progression

As your recovery progresses, you’ll be able to incorporate more movement. Your medical team and/or physical therapist will direct the specifics of your progression, but here’s an approximate schedule:

• First 6 weeks: Mostly focus on walking and light core activation

• After 6 weeks: Begin physical therapy (with lifting/bending/twisting restrictions)

• At 12 weeks: Most restrictions are cleared, opening up the option to incorporate more intense exercise

As your recovery progresses and your fusion solidifies, you may be able to pick up more demanding physical activities like sports and strength training.

Lifestyle adjustments

Your recovery and ongoing healing may require certain changes to your lifestyle. For example, your doctor may recommend a nutrient-rich diet to help improve your bone health. It’s also crucial to eat enough protein to support the healing process and gain muscle mass. Stress-reducing activities can also help promote healing and overall health.

The key to a successful spinal fusion recovery

What’s the most important thing to remember as you’re recovering from spinal fusion? Patience. It’s so easy to get frustrated with your progression or feel like things should be moving faster. But your body needs time to heal, so give yourself the opportunity to rest and move forward at your own pace.

We’ve talked about what spinal fusion recovery looks like on average, but everyone is different. Work closely with your surgeon and healthcare team to figure out what’s best for your body and recovery. The more you can communicate and actively participate in rehabilitation, the better the outcome will be.

If you’re confused on what an ideal recovery program should look like for you, we’d love to work with you and help you navigate post-spinal fusion life with 1:1 coaching. You don’t have to figure everything out on your own, help is available!