Canal stenosis surgery is a big step. If you feel ready to proceed, you’re probably dealing with severe or debilitating pain that persists no matter what you do. As you mentally prepare yourself for surgery, you’ll need to make some logistical preparations, too. For instance, you’ll want to think about how you will get to your postoperative appointments, care for your family, arrange for meals, run errands and, ultimately, return to your regular job duties (inside or outside of your home). Of course, in order to make these plans, you’ll need to have a general idea of when you will recover from your canal stenosis surgery.

Factors that can influence your recovery

First, you should know that there are several types of canal stenosis surgery, and the recovery period that follows each can differ based on the surgical technique used and other variables. For instance, some patients may need up to a year or longer to fully recover from traditional open spine surgery, which usually requires a long incision. On the other hand, many patients are able to recover from minimally invasive surgery within a few months, mainly because the surgical site can be accessed through a small incision.

How you can help

Based on the type of surgery you have and other individual considerations, your surgeon will explain what you can expect as you heal. He or she can also provide you with detailed postoperative instructions to help you recover safely, quickly and fully. Toward that end, here are some general guidelines to follow after your canal stenosis surgery:

• Drink plenty of water and maintain proper nutrition. By staying well hydrated and eating a healthy diet after surgery, you can promote healing, reduce your risk of experiencing surgical complications and minimize the side effects of anesthesia. You’ll want to make sure that your body has the fuel it needs to get better.
• Take care of your incision. Wash your hands thoroughly before touching your surgical site and follow your surgeon’s instructions for cleaning your incision.
• Keep moving. Your surgeon will likely advise you to begin taking short walks as soon as possible after your canal stenosis surgery. While this is important to avoid surgical complications, such as deep vein thrombosis, pneumonia and constipation, it can also help you feel better.
• Use recommended medications as needed. If you need help managing your pain or getting a good night’s sleep, take any prescribed medications as instructed by your surgeon.
  Maintain your recommended follow-up schedule. Keep your post-surgical appointments and contact your surgeon’s office right away if your discomfort worsens or signs of infection develop.

USA Spine Care

If you have questions about minimally invasive canal stenosis surgery or the type of recovery that you can expect, contact the experts at USA Spine Care. Our surgeons perform minimally invasive spine procedures that are often the clinically appropriate first choice and provide many advantages over open neck or back surgery.^

To learn more about surgical treatment options for canal stenosis, contact USA Spine Care today.