Have you recently been recommended for foraminal stenosis surgery? If so, then you’re likely wondering what to expect during your recovery. The truth is, everyone heals differently after surgery, and different approaches to surgery may have different timelines for recovery. That’s why it’s important to talk to your surgeon to learn what you can expect — and any potential complications that may change recovery expectations — in your specific case. However, USA Spine Care can give you some general advice concerning what to expect during your recovery.

Tip No. 1: “Simple” tasks may not be so simple for a while.

Whether you decide to have an open spine foraminal stenosis surgery or a minimally invasive spine procedure (such as those offered at USA Spine Care, which involve no lengthy recovery^), your body will still need time to recuperate after your surgery. That means that you’d need to take it easy and rest up. Certain tasks that you would have performed every day without a second thought, such as driving to the store or carrying your child around, will be out of the question for some time. Talk to your surgeon to see when you should be ready to start doing these activities again; until then, take it easy and don’t feel guilty about having a loved one help you recover after your foraminal stenosis surgery.

Tip No. 2: Watch out for impatience.

Sometimes, it can be tough to ease back into activities that you’ve been missing out on due to your spine condition. As the soreness eases after your foraminal stenosis surgery, you might be tempted to throw caution to the wind and get back to your favorite hobbies or feel driven to return to work earlier than you planned. However, it’s wise to check with your physician before doing so to see if you’re ready and to get advice about augmenting your activities if you’re not. That might include limiting the amount of time you spend doing an activity that involves a lot of bending (gardening, for example) or seeing if you can take a break from any heavy lifting you might do at work.

Tip No. 3: Some soreness is normal, but keep an eye out for infection.

Any kind of surgery has a risk for infection or complication, so it’s important to recognize signs that might point to a problem. Some soreness is to be expected after foraminal stenosis surgery, but if you notice that your soreness isn’t going away or seems to be getting worse after a few days, let your physician know. The same goes for if you begin to run a fever after surgery. Infection isn’t common, but you should stay vigilant.

At USA Spine Care, we offer outpatient spine surgery that is effective and offers several advantages over traditional, open spine procedures.  Our minimally invasive spine surgery is often a clinically appropriate first choice for people with foraminal stenosis. To learn about our surgery and to see if you’re a candidate, contact us today.