How to Recover From a Lumbar Laminectomy
- 1). Move frequently used items to shoulder-height before surgery so you can get to them without bending over. This includes toiletries and groceries.
- 2). Stay in the hospital for one to three days following a lumbar laminectomy. Your doctor will give you a post-operative recovery plan to follow.
- 3). Know that your time line for returning to normal activity will depend heavily on your age and health prior to the surgery.
- 4). Try walking as soon as you can following a lumbar laminectomy. Make sure you have someone there to support you, if needed, and take a few steps until you're exhausted.
- 5). Wear slip-on shoes with closed backs so you don't have to bend over to tie laces. This will make getting dressed much easier.
- 6). Arrange to have someone help you with chores around the house. Also get someone to drive you around on any errands for a week or two after surgery.
- 7). Avoid excessive twisting, lifting and bending for at least six weeks following a lumbar laminectomy. These actions can cause the sutures to pull or tear.
- 8). Return to doctor's office to get the sutures removed, if necessary. Some surgeons use the kind that dissolve.
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