Post-Op Tips: Back

To protect your back, try to keep your ears, shoulders, and hips aligned.

At home, you play a major role in your recovery. Protect your back by moving safely and practicing good body mechanics. Also, see your healthcare provider for follow-up visits.

Getting back into action

• Take short, frequent walks each day. You should walk as long and as far as you can comfortably.  You may be able to drive or return to a desk job within weeks after surgery. If you do more active work, you may need to wait longer before going back.
• Your healthcare provider will instruct you about a limit on the weight of items safe for you to lift the first few weeks after surgery, generally no more than 5 to 10 pounds.

Keys to good body mechanics

Good body mechanics (how you move) help keep your back safe by putting the least amount of pressure on your spine. To help protect your back, follow these tips:

• Always try to keep your ears, shoulders, and hips in line with each other.

• When you move, tighten the muscles in your stomach to support your spine.

• When you bend, bend at your hips and knees, not at your waist.

• When you turn, do not twist your shoulders or waist.

• Instead, turn your whole body.