Many people think that after they’ve had spinal surgery, the problem is fixed and they can go back to doing things the way they did before.
This isn’t the case. Sometimes fixing one problem with your spine can unintentionally create another. To avoid this and recover properly, you’ll need to follow an outpatient rehab program planned for you by a physiotherapist, and sometimes, an occupational therapist.
A good rehab program includes a combination of personalised exercises to do at home plus education. The program will help you strengthen your muscles, increase your mobility and change habits that could be damaging your spine health.
If you’ve had extensive surgery, or you’re in a weakened condition, you may be offered in-house rehabilitation in a specialised unit. This may involve transfer to a specialist rehabilitation hospital.