Bulging disc surgery is sometimes necessary to treat a bulging disc — a condition that is characterized by the protrusion of a disc out of its intended place in the spinal column. This condition can cause a number of painful symptoms, including numbness or tingling, muscle weakness and localized or radiating pain, when the disc touches a nearby nerve root. Bulging discs are often successfully treated with a combination of conservative methods, though some patients may require bulging disc surgery to provide them with lasting relief.

Traveling after bulging disc surgery

If you recently had bulging disc surgery and must travel you may be concerned about the effects your trip will have on your back. Here are seven tips you can follow to manage your back pain as effectively as possible, so you can make the most out of your trip despite your recent bulging disc surgery:

1. Inform the airline — Before you arrive at the airport, contact the airline to inform them of your medical condition. With sufficient notice, they may be able to provide you with accommodations such as early boarding or wheelchair transportation to your gate, if necessary.
2. Bring a note from your physician — While many airlines are known for having exceptional customer service, it is never a bad idea to have a note from your physician readily available, should it prove valuable in getting any necessary accommodations.
3. Give yourself plenty of time — Be sure to give yourself enough time to get to your gate before your flight to avoid any potential stress or rushing that could aggravate your back.
4. Carry pain medication with you — Be sure you have enough medication on hand to last you throughout the entirety of your flight. Additionally, it is a good idea to take your medication before you arrive at the airport to ensure it has enough time to begin working before you board.
5. Make sure you have sufficient support — Bring any pillows that will provide the neck and back support you need to remain comfortable. If you are unable to bring your own, a flight attendant will likely be able to provide you with one for your flight.
6. Move around — When it is safe to do so, get up and stretch during your flight, as prolonged sitting can lead to discomfort.
7. Practice good posture — Airplane seats can sometimes be a little cramped, but maintaining good posture will help to prevent any lasting discomfort from your trip.

Bulging disc surgery at USA Spine Care

If your physician has recommended bulging disc surgery to manage your symptoms and improve your quality of life, it is important to explore the many surgical options available to you, including the minimally invasive, outpatient procedures performed by the board-certified surgeons at USA Spine Care.

By offering many advantages over traditional open spine surgery, including shorter recovery time and reduced risk of infection, our advanced procedures help patients return to their daily lives as quickly and safely as possible. To become one of the more than 75,000 patients we have helped since 2005, contact USA Spine Care today. We will gladly provide you with a review* of your MRI at no cost to determine if you are a candidate for our procedures.