Spinal stenosis micro decompression surgery

[Jhpc]

Hi,

I had the above operation due to spinal stenosis and a bulging disc last Monday 28 th June,

I’m improving every day, light touch wood at the end of a long tunnel! Yeah!

Any advice re recovery do’s and don’ts would be welcome.

Just wanted anyone’s input of their experience.

Thanks in advance.

[Star13]

yes it is a case of improving everyday and then looking back after a month and saying wow was I really that bad to begin with!

Have you been given any exercises yet? If not wait till they tell you to either go to a physio or get the ones you can do and do them every day. Start of slow and then gradually build up. Its important to do them though.

Its also important not to bend down or side ways - Im sure they have told you that, No cutting toe nails!

No sitting for too long either. I used to walk round the garden, have a sit, do a few exercises then go for a longer walk, then have a rest - you get the drift! My surgeon said walk walk walk, its the best thing to do once you have built up your mobility.

Im a year on and alls good. Hope yours continues to improve well.

[Jhpc in reply to Star13]

Hi Star13

Yes I was given advice to walk little but often but don’t do too much.

So I have 3 10 minute walks a day (I feel I could walk more but was advised because I feel so good I’ve got to remember my body is recovering)

Plus wee walks about the house.

Sit for 20 mins then move.

Definite no is lifting anything heavy.

I’ve got the hydro pool next week think this is for 3 weeks then I’ve got physio appointment booked for Sept.

Very reassuring that your surgery worked. Onwards and upwards.

Thanks for your reply.

[Star13 in reply to Jhpc]

At six weeks he wanted me able to walk a mile..... all I can say thats a target for people who dont have other conditions affecting mobility! Just grateful that I can walk MUCH further than I did before surgery on some days!

[Jhpc in reply to Star13]

That’s so good to hear, I think that’s reasonable distance for 6 weeks.I can’t wait to get to walking further but I’m being impatient and need to learn baby steps.So painful to walk before surgery.

[Krock1]

Everything Star13 has recommended is a very good approach. Follow your doctor's guidance and ask him what you can do next. The best thing is to be consistent in your rehab. Do not overdo it but be positive in increasing your ability. The walking is a great gauge on how you are improving. I started with the goal of getting to the end of the street and then gradually increasing until I was walking for miles. Be careful of inflaming the surgery, if you do become inflamed lighten up and get back in front of the issue.

[Jhpc in reply to Krock1]

Thanks Krock1 sound advice thanks how long ago did you have surgery Hope you are well.