Recovery after spinal surgery with metal structures

The operation to install a metal structure on the spine is a complex surgical intervention. Indications for its implementation are a fracture of the vertebral column, intervertebral hernia, advanced osteochondrosis, accompanied by severe destruction of the disc. After the installation of a metal structure, the patient needs rehabilitation, which will determine the duration of recovery of the body and the quality of life after surgery. What are the features of rehabilitation after surgery on the spine with metal structures?

Recovery after spinal surgery: general rules

Compliance with the rules of rehabilitation after surgery will avoid serious complications and restore working capacity in a timely manner.

There are general recommendations after spinal surgery with metal structures:

1. It is contraindicated for the patient to sit for several months after lumbar surgery. If a metal structure was installed on the cervical region, it is possible to take a sitting position only after the permission of the neurosurgeon.
2. A person needs to avoid frequent travel in transport, since even a slight vibration can cause irreparable harm to the spine.
3. It is forbidden to carry loads weighing more than two kilograms, and this recommendation must be observed for 6 months after surgery.
4. Sharp inclinations, deflections in the lower back and being in an uncomfortable position are also prohibited.
5. The patient must wear a special corset throughout the entire rehabilitation period.

A person who has undergone spinal surgery to install metal structures should be prepared for the fact that any sports may be contraindicated for him.

Throughout the entire period of rehabilitation, the patient must follow the recommendations of the rehabilitation doctor.

Stages of rehabilitation after surgery on the spine with a metal structure

Recovery after surgery on the spine with metal structures takes from three months to several years - it all depends on the degree of complexity of the injury.

The recovery period is divided into 3 stages:

1. Early: lasts several weeks. The larger the surgical area, the longer the early recovery will be. During this period, the patient observes strict bed rest. If an operation was carried out to eliminate the intervertebral hernia, then after 3-5 days the patient is allowed to get out of bed. In the case of a severe injury, bed rest can last from several weeks to several months. At the first stage after surgery, a person is prescribed drugs with an analgesic effect. All measures taken at an early stage of rehabilitation are aimed at preventing severe complications, healing wounds and relieving swelling of damaged tissues. The condition of the seams is also carefully monitored. If signs of inflammation or suppuration appear, the surgeon immediately takes measures to remove the suture material, decontaminate the wounds and apply new sutures.
2. Second: a person has been under the supervision of a rehabilitator for several months. The specialist shows the patient the basic exercises to restore motor function. Also, a person is prescribed physiotherapy exercises (exercise therapy), physiotherapy and massage.
3. Third: the duration of the last recovery period is individual for each patient. At this stage, the person is engaged in rehabilitation at home, according to the recommendations developed by the rehabilitation specialist.

During the entire recovery period, the patient should regularly visit a doctor, which will allow to control the rehabilitation process after the implantation of metal structures. This will avoid complications associated with implant rejection or infection.

Recovery Methods

Rehabilitation after spinal surgery includes:

drug therapy;

• exercise therapy;
• Massage;
• Physiotherapy and hydrotherapy;
• Proper nutrition.

Drug therapy involves taking painkillers, as well as vitamins, calcium preparations and chondroprotectors that accelerate the regeneration of cartilage tissue.

Massage and exercise therapy after spine surgery with a design are considered an integral part of the recovery process. Rehabilitation procedures, especially exercises for daily performance, are selected individually. An effective technique used after surgery is kinesitherapy on orthopedic simulators.

Nutrition after surgery on the spine with metal structures involves the use of low-fat, easily digestible food rich in vitamins and calcium. You need to eat regularly and in small portions. The patient is shown compliance with the drinking regime - a day you need to drink at least 1.5 liquids. After spinal surgery, it is contraindicated to drink caffeinated drinks, as they contribute to the leaching of calcium from the body.

Physiotherapy also helps to speed up the rehabilitation period, so the patient is prescribed procedures such as mud therapy, electrophoresis and radon baths. Periodically, the patient is recommended to undergo spa treatment and reflexology.

Video: Therapeutic gymnastics for the back

What should be of concern?

If severe back pain occurs, the patient should see a doctor as soon as possible. These symptoms indicate the development of postoperative complications, so the patient should be treated urgently. In such cases as allergy to the implant, infection, false joint formation, poor quality of the metal, a decision is made to remove the structure.

Strict adherence to the rules of recovery after implantation of metal structures on the spine will allow you to get rid of back pain, restore your ability to work, and also prevent the recurrence of intervertebral hernias and the recurrence of osteochondrosis.