Frequently asked Questions
Recovery after Surgery
What supplies will I need? Our discharge planner in the hospital will meet with you. A shower stool,
elevated toilet seat, walker and "grabber" are arranged for delivery after the hospital stay. Some times a hospital bed
is helpful. Arrange a room on the first floor if able.
How do I sleep? Any way that feels comportable, I recommend many long pillows. Usually patients sleep on the back or tilted to one side. If you sleep completely on your side, try a pillow between the legs.
Do I need the walker? Use it as long as you need it to feel stable. When strength and coordination returns , practice walking
Do I have to wear the brace? The brace is there to remind you there was a surgery, it pevents bending and twisting and protects the surgery. I highly recommend the brace until I see enough healing. Most patients are out of the brace by six to eight weeks.
Can I walk up stairs, inside or outside? You can go anywhere on your walks when you feel comfortable for those challenges.
How do I sleep? Any way that feels comportable, I recommend many long pillows. Usually patients sleep on the back or tilted to one side. If you sleep completely on your side, try a pillow between the legs.
Do I need the walker? Use it as long as you need it to feel stable. When strength and coordination returns , practice walking
Do I have to wear the brace? The brace is there to remind you there was a surgery, it pevents bending and twisting and protects the surgery. I highly recommend the brace until I see enough healing. Most patients are out of the brace by six to eight weeks.
Can I walk up stairs, inside or outside? You can go anywhere on your walks when you feel comfortable for those challenges.
When Can I drive? I try to hold
off on driving for as long as possible, at least three to four weeks to protect the back. The golden rule: If it hurts
don't, do it.
If there are other questions call me at the office and Mary will help answer any questions....
