Back surgery is a scary prospect for most people. But if you’re one of the millions of Americans who suffer from chronic back pain, you may be considering spinal surgery as a way to find relief. Surgery is a big decision, and it’s important to prepare for it in every way possible. In this blog post, we will discuss five ways to prepare for back surgery. Following these tips will help make the process easier and smoother for you!
Stop Taking NSAIDs:
Up until this point, you may have been managing your back pain with the use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen, naproxen, and aspirin. However, these drugs can thin your blood and increase the risk of bleeding during surgery. If you’re taking any over-the-counter NSAIDs, such as ibuprofen or aspirin, be sure to stop at least two weeks prior to your surgery date. There are other medications or supplements that can also thin your blood, so it is important to discuss all your medications with your spinal surgeon ahead of time.
Keep Moving:
It may seem counterintuitive, but it is important to keep your body moving even as you prepare for back surgery. Of course, you will want to avoid any strenuous activity or exercises that put strain on your back. But remaining active and keeping your muscles strong will help you recover more quickly after surgery. Staying physically active also reduces the risk of blood clots or circulation problems following surgery. Walking is a great way to stay active while also giving your back a break. Just be sure to listen to your body and don’t overdo it!
Find a Caretaker:
After back surgery, you will likely need help with activities of daily living for at least the first few days or weeks. Arrange for someone to stay with you during this time, whether it is a family member, friend, or professional caretaker. This person can help you with things like bathing, dressing, and cooking. They can also make sure you’re taking your medications as prescribed and help you keep track of any appointments or follow-up visits with your surgeon. Finally, a caretaker can also perform dressing changes and wound cleanings for the incision sites on your back that may be difficult or impossible for you to reach on your own. Overall, people who arrange to have a caretaker tend to have easier and faster recoveries.
Purchase Recovery Tools:
There are certain tools and supplies that can make your recovery process after back surgery much easier. For example, you may want to purchase a raised toilet seat or grabber tool. These items can help you maintain your independence while also preventing falls or other injuries. You may also want to invest in a comfortable recliner or pillows to support your back while you heal. Be sure to ask your surgeon for recommendations on other recovery tools that may be helpful for you.
Put Items in Easy Reach:
One of the best things you can do to prepare for back surgery is to make your home as safe and accessible as possible. This means putting frequently used items within easy reach so that you don’t have to strain your back or reach too far. For example, you may want to keep a stash of snacks and drinks next to your bed, or put a basket in the shower for shampoo and soap. Taking these small steps will help you feel more comfortable and safe in your own home as you recover from surgery.
In Conclusion
In this blog post, we discussed five ways to prepare for back surgery: stopping NSAID use, remaining active, finding a caretaker, purchasing recovery tools, and putting items in easy reach. Following these tips will help ensure a smooth and successful recovery experience! If you have any questions or concerns, be sure to talk to your surgeon. They will be able to provide you with more specific instructions based on your individual situation.
