Physical Therapy After Spinal Fusion Surgery

Following spinal fusion surgery, it is important that you meet with a doctor or physical therapist so that you may receive the necessary care for your recovery. At United Rehab Physical Therapy, our team of highly trained therapists can help. Through our physical therapy in Ronkonkoma, we will work with you to create an individualized treatment plan to get you on the road to recovery.

Spinal fusion surgery

Spinal fusion is a surgical procedure where multiple vertebrae are joined together to become one bone. This procedure can be used to treat a wide range of different spinal disorders. Some conditions that can be treated with spinal fusion surgery include the following:

Herniated discs
Scoliosis
Degenerative disc disease
Spinal stenosis

Steps to recovery

Recovery from this procedure may take three to six months, and how quickly you heal will be determined by your physical condition and overall health. During this period, it is critical that you follow all directions from your doctor. Once your doctor evaluates your recovery and decides that you are ready for low-impact exercising, you can begin to work with our physical therapy in Ronkonkoma.

Step 1: Our physical therapist will be able to effectively communicate with your surgeon throughout the healing process and design a recovery treatment plan based on your type of procedure.

Step 2: Based on your needs and where you are in the healing process, our physical therapists will create a customized treatment plan for rehabilitation.

Step 3: Following surgery, you should start your healing process by walking more. Walking is a low-impact exercise that can significantly support your back during your recovery. Walking is also known to enhance spinal fusion surgery, as it assists your bones to grow together faster.

Step 4: Begin stretching and utilizing other low-impact exercises with the permission of your doctor and therapist. These stretches and exercises are designed to speed up the recovery and build up endurance.

Stretches and exercises

After the procedure, it is vital that you regularly perform stretches and exercises throughout your recovery. After your physical therapist teaches you them, these stretches and exercises will help you maintain flexibility and improve your range of motion.

Are you looking to begin your post-spinal fusion surgery recovery? Visit us at United Rehab Physical Therapy to get started. Our physical therapists are trained in advanced rehab protocols and will create an individualized plan to treat you properly. For more information on physical therapy in Ronkonkoma, contact us today!