In the weeks that follow a minimally invasive procedure from USA Spine Care, there’s a good chance that you will be instructed to participate in several exercises as you recover. These exercises are vitally important because they can help the healing process and might even be the difference that makes your procedure one that sufficiently addresses your symptoms.

While you might be eager to take the necessary steps to regain full strength after surgery, it is essential that you follow your physician’s instructions completely. Overdoing it can be counterproductive and may make matters worse. Above all else, listen to your body. Stop or avoid any exercises that cause you pain and contact the dedicated team at USA Spine Care for additional direction.

Level one exercises for arthritis of the spine recovery

The exercises recommended by USA Spine Care in the weeks following surgery are typically divided into two levels and will depend on whether you had a cervical (neck) or lumbar (lower back) procedure. The first level is intended to be started two to three weeks after surgery. For a cervical procedure, this may include diaphragmatic breathing, abdominal bracing, cervical mobility flexion and extension, cervical rotation and shoulder shrugs. While, for a lumbar procedure diaphragmatic breathing, abdominal bracing, shoulder presses and gluteal seats may be recommended.

Level two exercises for arthritis of the spine recovery

The second level is a little more intensive and is meant to begin approximately four to six weeks after surgery for arthritis of the spine. In the event of a cervical procedure, cervical range of motion and cervical isometric techniques may be recommended. A lumbar procedure, on the other hand, could benefit from post-surgical exercises like hook-lying alternative arms and legs, hook-lying combos, bridging and supine sciatica/tibial glides. These exercises will promote recovery and should not increase pain. However, some mild muscle soreness is normal after the first few sessions of any exercise.

Learn more about the exercises recommended after arthritis of the spine surgery

To learn more how these specific exercises work and to see a step-by-step video about effective body mechanics while performing them, go to spine-exercises.com. Depending on the stage of your recovery process, our spine care experts recommend that you perform these exercises one to three times per day.

For more information about the many minimally invasive procedures we offer to treat arthritis of the spine at USA Spine Care, reach out to us today. Through a free MRI review,* we can evaluate your condition to see if you are a potential candidate for one of our minimally invasive arthritis of the spine surgeries.

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