Any back surgery, even a smaller one, is a major procedure that can have significant impacts on a person’s life, both physically and emotionally. While it can sometimes be necessary to address serious spinal issues, it’s obviously preferable to avoid additional surgery if possible. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to minimize the risk of needing another back surgery in the future. By adopting healthy habits and making lifestyle changes, you can support your spine and reduce the likelihood of experiencing further problems. Here are five practical steps you can take to help you avoid another back surgery:
Continue reading “MAINTAINING YOUR SPINE AFTER SURGERY”CARING FOR YOUR SURGICAL WOUND – TMI EDITION
Caring for a surgical wound is a critical part of your healing process and minimizes the risk of complications. Whether you’ve undergone a minor or major surgical procedure, understanding the essential steps for wound care is vital for a successful recovery. In this article, we will discuss some of the ins and outs on how to take care of your surgical wound.
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Global Sagittal Balance
Some patients need fusions.
If you need a fusion, even a small one, it is important to consider how the fused segment will affect the balance of the spine. Once the spine is fused, it is relatively permanent. Therefore, if your spine is fused out of balance, you may more or less be out of balance forever.
Global sagittal balance is an important concept in spine surgery and can profoundly affect surgical outcomes, especially in spinal fusion procedures. Global sagittal balance refers to the alignment of the spine and pelvis in the sagittal plane, which is the plane that divides the body into left and right halves. In a healthy individual, the spine and pelvis are aligned to maintain a stable and efficient posture where the head is essentially centered over the hips and pelvis. However, when this alignment is disrupted, it can lead to various spinal disorders, including chronic pain and disability.
Continue reading “THE CONE OF ECONOMY”POSTOPERATIVE INSTRUCTIONS
Follow these instructions to optimize your recovery from your spine surgery.
ACTIVITY AND EXERCISE
Plan to rest for the first four to five days following discharge from the hospital.
Avoid repetitive bending, twisting, pushing, pulling, or lifting anything more than 10 pounds for the first two weeks. Avoid sitting or standing for more than 30 minutes at a time for the first week. Pay special attention to body mechanics following surgery. If you need to pick something up from ground level, bend at the knees and keep your back straight.
You should have been fitted with a brace. If you have been given specific instructions by Dr. Ball, follow those.
Continue reading “POSTOPERATIVE INSTRUCTIONS”SAFE USE OF OPIOID PAIN MEDICATION
Most patients undergoing a spinal procedure will require short term treatment with opioid pain medications. Opioids can be an invaluable tool in helping to manage the pain that can result from surgery. However, the use of opioids is also carries some risks. Our goal for you is to make surgery as safe and effective as possible. Part of the process is patient education regarding the use of pain medications. Here are some resources to help you. As part of your care, you will be required to sign a pain contract if you elect to undergo treatment at our clinic. You may also be tested to ensure that you are taking the medications as prescribed. In addition to pain medications you will likely be given a prescription for narcan, a rescue medication that can be life saving in the event of an overdose.
Common opioid medications include:
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