At Orthopedic & Laser Spine Surgery, we want to make sure your back is in the best shape possible so you can live a pain-free and active life. There can be a few different reasons…
Recovering from back surgery is no walk in the park. While the recovery process is no walk-in-the-park, you can recover in a much more comfortable fashion with the right supplies.
The talented team of doctors at Orthopedic & Laser Spine Surgery has seen many patients take on the recovery process after back or spine surgery. While our minimally invasive treatments make the recovery process quicker and easier on patients, these essential items are sure to help you while you recover from back surgery.
6 Essential Items to Help You Recover From Back Surgery
With about 500,000 Americans getting back surgery each year, you are not alone in your recovery process ahead. In preparation for the healing process that follows whatever surgical procedure you undergo, it is best to be prepared with essential items on hand. Not only will this help reduce stress when you come home after the procedure, but it will also help your loved ones who are tasked with your care to do their best to help you heal.
Pillows and Extra Cushioning
While you should not overdo it with extra pillows, some extra cushioning can help you feel more comfortable as you rest in bed or in your favorite chair. Try adding an extra pillow to your bed or a donut cushion to your couch but be careful not to throw off the alignment of your neck and spine. As always, your experienced back and spine doctor will likely have a recommendation for making sure you stay properly aligned.
Toiletries
Immediately following surgery, you may not be able to shower. However, consider having a toiletry kit with the following items to help you stay clean:
- Sanitary wipes
- Toothbrush and toothpaste
- Deodorant
- Razor
Slip-On Shoes
Once you can walk and be released back home, you will not want to lace up converse or strap on heels after back surgery. Comfortable, easy-to-slip-on shoes are going to be a lifesaver. Some examples would be crocs or slippers with traction on the bottom, so you do not slip. Once you arrive home, the following items will be useful in helping you remain as comfortable as possible in addition to the shoes:
- Soft, loose-fitting pajamas
- A robe
- Warm socks
Mini-Fridge
Following surgery, you should be able to walk, but your mobility should still be limited. This means that getting up and down to grab food from the fridge is not ideal. Stock up a mini-fridge you can keep close by with some of your favorite drinks and snacks.
Water Bottle With an Attached Straw
It is best to restrict any unneeded movement after surgery. Lifting your body up and down to take a sip of water is not advisable, so having a convenient water bottle with a straw attached will allow you to stay hydrated while healing.
Laxatives and Stool Softeners
This is not a topic anyone likes to discuss, but constipation is often a reality for patients recovering from surgery. Your doctor will likely recommend a laxative or stool softener to help with this issue, but if you prefer to go the all-natural route, the following list is natural laxatives you may try:
- Apple cider
- Prune juice
- Probiotic food like yogurt
- Flaxseeds
- High fiber fruits like berries, apples, pears, and figs
Experienced Back and Spine Doctors Can Help Your Back Pain
Getting back surgery is usually the last resort in many cases of back pain. While our doctors are experienced in specialized minimally invasive back surgery that will help you have an easier recovery process, it can be hard to know when your back pain is severe enough to need to see a doctor or start the conversation on surgery.
Orthopedic & Laser Spine Surgery can help guide you through the diagnosis process and choose from the multiple non-surgical and surgical treatment options to best suit your needs. For a free MRI review, contact us here or call (855) 853-6542.