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Exercises to Prevent Scar Tissue After Spine Surgery

Scarring as a result of spine surgery is a common aftereffect. It can happen after successful surgical operations or can result from surgical error leading to further back or leg pain. The scar tissue s located at the nerve root is otherwise known as the epidural fibrosis. You can limit epidural fibrosis through post-operative exercise to help prevent excess scarring and limit future pain.

  1. Mobility

    • According to Dr. Peter F. Ullrich, Jr.of Spine Health, most scarring occurs within the first 12 weeks after the operation. Much of the scar tissue can even occur as early as six weeks after your surgery. Ullrich notes that if mobility of the nerve is maintained during this period, you should be able to limit the amount of scar tissue that occurs. The scar tissue will not bind to the nerve, therefore reducing problems. This is one reason that walking and nonweight-bearing exercise is imperative once surgery is done. Consult your doctor about when you can begin activity and what activities are best for you.

    Stretching

    • Scar tissues prevents flexibility thereby creating increased likelihood of pressure on the nerve. Stretching helps break up fibers and create flexibility under normal exercise regimens and can assist in preventing excess scaring around the nerve root after your spine surgery. For lower back surgery, something as simple as pumping your ankle while you stretch your hamstrings helps to keep the nerve moving across the location of spine surgery. Your doctor and physical therapist can develop a stretching program just weeks after your surgery that can help you create mobility across your surgical area. Moderation is essential with post-operative stretching. You don't want to overdo it and injure what your surgeon just corrected. If you are stretching your arms, start with minimal motions and gradually increase. You may not be able to bring your arm across your body and stretch it, but bringing it up and as far across your body as possible will help you move the nerve giving it the mobility it needs to freely perform.

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