• Walking: Start walking as soon as possible after surgery. Short, frequent walks will aid in circulation, prevent stiffness, and prevent blood clots

• Sitting: Limit sitting to periods less than 1 hour for the first 2 weeks. Avoid prolonged sitting or slouching.

• Bending/Lifting/Twisting: Avoid bending at the waist, twisting your spine, or lifting anything heavier than 10 pounds (No more than 2 gallons of Milk) for the first 4 weeks.

• Driving: Do not drive until you can sit comfortably and are on normal preoperative pain medicine regimen.

• Work & Activities: Light-duty work may be resumed in 2-4 weeks, but jobs requiring heavy lifting should be delayed for at least 6 weeks.

• The wound is closed with surgical glue and absorbable sutures. The glue will flake off in 1-2 weeks after surgery.

• Keep the incision clean and dry. You may shower 24 hours after surgery but avoid direct water pressure on the incision.

• Do not submerge the wound in a bathtub, pool, or hot tub for the 4 weeks post-op

• If you notice redness, swelling, warmth, or drainage, contact your surgeon immediately, as these may be signs of infection.

• Medications: Take prescribed pain relievers as directed. Use Over-the-counter medications (e.g., acetaminophen, ibuprofen) first. Do not take more than 4g of acetaminophen (Tylenol).

• Ice: Apply an ice pack to the lower back for 15-20 minutes every few hours to reduce swelling and pain. No Heat Packs.

• Muscle Spasms: If spasms occur, muscle relaxants may be prescribed. Stretching and gentle walking can also help.

Item descripConstipation is common due to pain medications. Prevent it by:

• Drinking plenty of fluids.

• Eating fiber-rich foods (fruits, vegetables, whole grains).

• Using a stool softener (e.g., docusate) or mild laxatives if needed.tion

Item descriptionCall your doctor immediately if you experience:

• Fever above 101°F (38.3°C).

• Progressively increasing pain that is not relieved with medication.

• New or worsening numbness, tingling, or weakness in your legs.

• Loss of bladder or bowel control.

• Redness, swelling, or drainage at the incision site.

• Your first post-operative appointment will typically be 2 weeks after surgery.

• Further follow-ups will be scheduled based on your recovery progress.

• Physical therapy may be prescribed to strengthen the core and improve flexibility. The determination will be made at the 1st follow up visit.

• Avoid high-impact activities (running, heavy lifting, intense twisting motions) until discussed in clinic

If you have any concerns or questions, please contact our office.

Emergency Contact Information:

Washington Brain and Spine Clinic- 301-718-9611

Email: LDaggubati@brainsurgery.com