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Back Surgery Disc Replacement Therapy

Back pain can be debilitating when severe. If the back pain can not be treated by traditional methods or a disc has begun to degenerate, then disc replacement surgery may be required. In this surgery, a worn disc is removed through surgical procedure and a replacement disc is inserted. This surgery requires rehabilitation after the operation.

  1. Post Operation

    • After the operation, the patient will have to stay in a hospital for several days while the incision heals. During this time, physiotherapy is started with small amounts of exercise to promote mobility. The patient is urged to move around using a walking aid such as a metal frame, progressing slowly to a can over time. During this time, short range of motion (ROM) exercises are performed to help promote a normal motion in the back and to heal the muscles around the inserted disc. A patient will be allowed to leave the hospital once they have achieved mobility on the stairs and are able to have a normal bowel movement.

    Physiotherapy Sessions

    • After release, the patient will need to attend regular physiotherapy to asses how well she is doing. Physiotherapy during this time is also meant to mentally support the patient through the difficult recovery process. Pain is likely during the first 18 months which may be distracting to the patient. During these physiotherapy sessions, pain intensity and location are checked to make sure everything is normal. A patient's walking abilities are checked, and awkward postures are corrected. Gentle, non-repetitious exercises are used to strengthen the back. The incision is checked to make sure it is healing properly. Massage may be carried out to ease pain.

    Recovery

    • After a period of physical therapy, pain will go away, leading to stiffness and muscle tightness in the back. At this time, more intense stretches and exercises are used to strengthen the back and loosen the muscles. Muscle tightness is common in the glutes, lower and middle back. Pilates in the clinic may be encouraged to engage the muscles and promote strength and flexibility.

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