Care of Patient After Scoliosis Reduction Surgery

Patient care after scoliosis reduction surgery is an integral part of recovery. After surgery for the spinal condition, you may have to stay in the hospital for up to seven days. During this time, you will participate in occupational therapy to help you learn how to move without injuring your back. At-home care is just as important as post-surgery hospital care. Proper care of incisions, maintaining a healthy diet and avoiding strenuous activities can help you recover faster.

Post-Surgery Hospital Care

• Recovery from scoliosis reduction surgery starts at the hospital. After the effects of the anesthesia have worn off, you will be returned to your hospital room. Over the next four to seven days, you will be encouraged to drink plenty of fluids. Morphine may be given to help you cope with any pain. Walking, even short distances, is also encouraged to help maintain blood flow and muscle function.

  Within two or three days, you should be able to eat small amounts of food. Over the next few days, your appetite will return. Eating small amounts every few hours helps you maintain a healthy weight and aids in the healing process.

Post-Surgery Occupational Therapy

• During your stay at the hospital, you'll participate in occupational therapy (OT) sessions. These sessions help you learn how to dress, walk, tie your shoes and bend to pick objects off the floor. For the rest of your life, you will have to be mindful of how you bend and twist your spine to prevent further injury.

  Occupational therapy may begin the day after surgery depending on how well you are recovering.

  At this point, begin discussing at-home care with your physician or physical therapist. A written plan for at-home care explaining the next six to eight weeks will be given to you before you are released from the hospital.

Post-Surgery Home Care

• After returning home, start the home care plan outlined by the hospital staff. Maintain a healthy diet high in protein to help you make a full recovery. Drink plenty of fluids as well.

  Since several incisions made during the surgery need proper care and attention to prevent infection, incisions must be cleaned at least once a day. A new dressing must be applied after cleaning. If a family member is caring for you once you return home, the hospital staff will educate her about how to properly clean these wounds. If an infection develops, return to the hospital as soon as possible.

  Restricted respiratory function is common for those who have undergone scoliosis sugery. Breathing exercises should be performed until you can breathe normally again. Take a few deep breaths or alternate from deep and short breaths for one minute every two hours during the day.

Fitness Restrictions

• Do not participate in sports activities for at least three months or until your physician tells you otherwise. Gradually increase fitness activities to prevent injury. Swimming, walking or using a treadmill are good ways to begin rebuilding muscle and endurance. Choose low-impact exercises and activities that do not involve excessive bending or twisting. Yoga, Pilates, gymnastics and stationary exercises such as sit-ups should be avoided to prevent injury to the back.