Spinal fusion surgery can alleviate back pain and restore functionality to limbs suffering tingling, numbness, or weakness because of compressed nerves in the spinal column. Your surgeon may conduct Glendale spinal fusion anywhere along your spine. However, the most prevalent fusion surgeries entail the lumbar spine (lower back) and cervical spine (neck). While the dangers of spinal fusion are pretty low, you may enhance your likelihood of successful surgery by preparing in advance. Here are the best tips on how to prepare for your spinal fusion surgery for a smooth recovery.
1. Quit Smoking
If you are a smoker, you must stop well before your spinal fusion procedure. In fact, ceasing smoking is one of the best ways to enhance your likelihood of successful surgery. Many studies demonstrate that smoking hugely disrupts the body’s capability to fuse together following spinal surgery.
Smoking could also trigger other postoperative complications like poor wound healing. If you want help quitting smoking, talk to your doctor about joining a smoke cessation program.
2. Discuss Your Supplements And Medications
During your pre-surgical consultation, prove a full list of the over-the-counter and prescription medications you often lack. You should also list all herbal supplements, vitamins, and minerals you consume.
Most of these products, such as aspirin, could disrupt the healing process of spinal fusion surgery. Your doctor will advise you on the prescriptions and supplements you could safely use, and what you should discontinue.
3. Eat Healthily
Numerous micronutrients and vitamins help with healing after a spinal fusion surgery procedure. Therefore, you can enhance your chances of successful procedures by consuming lean proteins, plenty of fresh vegetables and fruits, and much fiber.
Avoid processed and fatty foods, as they can trigger constipation. After surgery, consult your physician about taking stool softeners and fiber supplements to keep bowel movements regular.
4. Prepare Your Kitchen
Lifting, bending, and twisting movements is not encouraged after spinal fusion surgery. These restrictions could render it hard for you to prepare meals. Therefore, before surgery, move food items and other necessary cooking utensils to a region that is readily accessible.
Besides, stack prepared foods and canned goods to avoid the need for constant visits to the grocery store. This preparation helps prevent exceeding the activity and lifting requirements highlighted in the discharge guidelines.
5. Obtain Necessary Durable Medical Equipment
Consult your surgeon if you require durable medical equipment like a toilet seat riser to help with post-operative recovery. The equipment you need might vary, based on the areas of your spinal fusion and the degree of the procedure.
Often, medical equipment like folding walkers is issued at the hospital. Finding out what DME you will require beforehand will ensure you have everything you need, as well as avoid unrequited purchases.
6. Request The Assistance Of Friends And Family Members
Immediately after your procedure, you might not be capable of driving or moving around effectively. Inform your family members or friends beforehand so that they can prepare meals, pick up any prescriptions, or help you with other everyday activities like grocery shopping. Besides, you can arrange for specialist home care for several days.
Undertaking a spinal fusion is not only physically taxing but could also be emotionally overwhelming. Therefore, it is important to consider how you will look after your body as you start the recovery process. Your doctor will provide the necessary post-operative guidelines, including how to watch for complications, pain-relieving medications, and sometimes at-home care. The healthy lifestyle habits you adopt during recovery also help avoid additional or future spine-related conditions. Therefore, uphold a positive view of life and keep eating well, exercising, and obtaining adequate rest for the long-term success of your fusion surgery.
