How to Prepare for Back Surgery

Medically reviewed by Jonas DeMuro, MD

Last Updated: May 25, 2021 References

If you have an upcoming back surgery, there are some useful things to know beforehand that can help you get through the surgery more easily. You want to try to recover in the healthiest way possible. Whether you are having a spinal fusion, disc replacement, or other procedure, there are several things you can do to make the process a little easier.

Method 1

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Talking to Your Doctor

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Learn about the procedure. There are many different types of back surgeries. If your doctor suggests that you need an operation, take care to find out precisely what he recommends. You can also ask for a referral to a surgeon who specializes in that type of back surgery.^{[1]
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- One of the most common types of back surgery is spinal fusion. During this surgery, weak spines are supported, usually by steel rods.
- Your doctor might recommend a discectomy. Part of a disc is removed to take pressure off of other parts of the back.
- A corpectomy is also common. This is when part of a vertebrae is removed.
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Ask questions. If your doctor recommends back surgery, you might have concerns. Before scheduling the surgery, make sure to have several thorough discussions with your doctor. You will want to talk to both your regular doctor and the potential surgeon.^{[2]
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- Make sure you understand the terms. When your doctor talks about your back and potential surgeries, you might not understand all of the medical jargon.
- Ask your doctor for clear explanations. You can say, "I'm not sure what you mean by 'lumbar disc herniation'. Can you explain that to me in different terms?"
- Take notes. Write down what your doctor says. This will help you remember the important details after you've left the office.
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Discuss alternatives. Back surgeries can be extremely effective in treating a lot of ailments. But it is normal to feel scared or reluctant. Ask your doctor if there are other options.^{[3]
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- When your doctor brings up surgery, ask if there are alternatives. You can say, "I understand that surgery can help. But are there other things we can try first?"
- Depending on the severity of your problem, there might be other regimens that could work. For example, you could ask about physical therapy.
- Take a friend or family member to your appointment with you. It can be helpful to have someone else listening and asking questions.
4
Know the members of your team. There will be several professionals involved in your spinal surgery. When you are planning for the surgery, it might be useful to meet as many of these people as possible. Ask your surgeon who will be responsible for your care.
- Get to know your surgeon. You want to make sure that you feel comfortable with this person.
- There will be several other people caring for you while you are in the hospital. For example, there will be an anesthesiologist, several nurses, and a case manager.
- While you are in the hospital, you will most likely begin the recovery process. Find out in advance if you will be working with a physical therapist or occupational therapist while you are in the hospital. Also, ask your surgeon if you will need to go to a rehab facility after you leave the hospital.
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Do further research. One of the best ways to prepare for surgery is is to rely on the knowledge of your medical team. However, you might find that you are interested in learning more about your condition and solutions. You can also do some outside research.^{[4]
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- Ask your doctor for reading materials. He can likely give you some pamphlets or direct you towards useful websites.
- Find an online forum. There are many online communities that can be useful to you. Look for one where people discuss back surgery and the recovery process.
- Talk to people you know. Maybe a friend or co-worker has had back surgery. Asking them questions about their experience can help you know what to expect.
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Getting Ready Physically

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Plan your pain control regimen. Once you have decided to have back surgery, it's time to get ready. There are several things you can do to prepare your body and your physical environment. First, you will want to figure out a pain management plan.^{[5]
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- Talk to your doctor about what kind of pain you can expect. Try to assess the severity and how long it will last.
- Be proactive in planning your pain control. Tell your doctor that you would like to figure out a regimen before surgery, not after.
- Many people report that better pain control management helped them have a faster recovery. You can discuss this issue with both your primary care physician and your doctor.
2
Take care of your body. There are several things you can do to help increase your chances of a smooth surgery and effective recovery. Remember that your overall physical health impacts the health of your back. Take steps to improve your general health.
- Eat a healthy diet. This will help your immune system, which can in turn help wounds heal faster.
- Pay attention to your nutrition. Eat a balanced diet of fruits and veggies, whole grains, and lean proteins.
- If possible, get some physical exercise before your surgery. It can be helpful to strengthen your muscles. Talk to your doctor about any limitations you might have.
- If you smoke, quit. Smoking increases your risk of complications during any type of surgical procedure.^{[6]
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Make your house recovery friendly. Recovering from back surgery can be a lengthy process. Be proactive and get your house in order before the surgery. You can do several helpful things ahead of time.^{[7]
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- Your range of motion may be quite limited. Move the things you need most often, such as clothes, food, and medications, to waist level.
- Move any potential hazards. Temporarily move things like rugs, cords, or pet toys, so that you won't trip over them.
- Get a non-skid bath mat. You may also need to get a raised toilet seat.
4
Adhere to pre-op guidelines. Your doctor will issue several instructions for you to follow. It is important that you follow all of the directions carefully. If you have questions about any of them, make sure to clarify.^{[8]
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- For example, your doctor might instruct you to stop taking some of your current medications. You will need to do this in the week leading up to your surgery. Bring a list of your medications to your doctor, and ask which one you should continue to take, and which ones you should stop taking. Make sure that you find out how soon before surgery your should stop taking certain medications and when you can resume them.
- The night before surgery, you might be instructed to take a "pre-op" shower. Your doctor's office will provide you with instructions on what products to use.
- You will likely need to fast. Do not eat or drink after midnight. Remember, your doctor might give you different instructions, depending on your particular situation.
5
Prepare a "day of surgery" checklist. Write down a list of things you will need to do on the day of your surgery. This can help calm any nerves you have. It will also ensure that you don't forget something important.
- Make sure you take a bag with you to the hospital. It should include items such as comfortable clothing, glasses, dentures, cell phone, cell phone charger, and reading materials. Do not bring any jewelry.
- Also, remember to bring your driver's license for identification and your insurance card.^{[9]
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- Take any necessary medications with a small sip of water. You can brush your teeth but don't swallow the water or toothpaste.
- Leave instructions for anyone who is caring for your pets or children. Thorough instructions will give you peace of mind during your hospital stay.
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Method 3

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Preparing Mentally

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Fight the negative thoughts. In addition to getting your body and home ready, you can also prepare mentally and emotionally for back surgery. Try to put yourself in a positive frame of mind. The power of positive thinking can actually help.^{[10]
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- It is common to have a wide range of emotions before back surgery. You might experience a lot of different types of negative thoughts.
- For example, it is normal to "catastrophize", which means imagining the worst case scenario. To fight these thoughts, try to do the opposite. You can think, "This surgery is going to change my life for the better."
- It is also common to overgeneralize. You might find yourself thinking, "This surgery means I'll never play tennis again." Instead, try to think, "Maybe my game will improve once my pain is gone."
2
Practice relaxation techniques. In the days before your surgery, you might be nervous. It is normal to feel anxiety. Surgery is a major event. You can practice relaxation techniques to help calm your fears.^{[11]
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- Try breathing exercises. Breathe in through your nose for four counts and exhale through your mouth for four counts.
- Repeat this pattern until you feel more calm. Focusing on your breathing can distract you from your fears.
- Breathing exercises and other relaxation techniques can also help you to manage your pain. For some people, they can also lower your heart rate and blood pressure.
3
Plan your recovery process. You will likely have a lot on your mind as you prepare for back surgery. If you can anticipate your needs during your recovery process, you will feel more calm and prepared. Make a list of all the things you will need.
- Take time off from work. Talk to your boss about the time you will need to be completely off, and when you might be able to work from home.
- Anticipate the financial costs. If you are going to miss out on income, make a modified budget for your recovery period.
- Find out what equipment you will need. For example, you may need things like a brace or possibly a walker.
4
Find a support system. Recovering from back surgery can be difficult. It can become even more complicated if you don't have help. Before your surgery, make sure that you have a support system in place.^{[12]
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- Ask a family member or friend to help you out. If you live alone, ask someone to stay with you for a few days.
- Explain your needs. You can say, "Will you be able to go to the pharmacy and grocery store for me? I won't be able to drive for a while."
- Choose someone you trust. You will need reliable emotional support in addition to help doing everyday tasks.
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Tips

Follow your doctor's instructions carefully.

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Accept help from friends and family when they offer.

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Learn about the procedure you will be having. Choose a surgeon you trust.

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