If your physician has recommended degenerative joint disease surgery as your next step in treatment, you likely have a lot of questions on your mind. Knowing what to expect before, during and after the procedure can help you better prepare and ensure your recovery goes smoothly.

Tips to help you recover from spine surgery

If you’re preparing for a spinal procedure to treat degenerative joint disease, here are some tips to keep in mind for your recovery:

1. Ask your surgeon questions before your surgery so you know what to expect and can plan ahead.
2. Connect online with other people who have had degenerative joint disease surgery for guidance and support.
3. Recruit family members and friends to be around and provide some assistance with daily tasks in the first few days of your recovery.
4. Follow your surgeon’s recommendations and take any medications as prescribed.
5. Avoid staying in the same position for extended periods of time.
6. Schedule a follow-up appointment about two weeks after the surgery to check on your progress.
7. Notify your surgeon of any signs or symptoms that seem out of the ordinary so they can be addressed early.
8. Be patient during the recovery, as it will take time for you to fully recover and return to regular, daily activities.
9. Stay active as much as possible to aid your recovery process and regain your strength.
10. Avoid lifting heavy objects or doing activities that increase your neck or back pain.

Minimally invasive surgery at USA Spine Care

Each individual’s recovery experience is different, depending on the condition being treated, the patient’s general health and many other factors. One factor that can make a big difference in the length of the recovery is the type of surgery you receive. Minimally invasive spine surgery at USA Spine Care is a safer and effective alternative to traditional open spine surgery, and the less than 1-inch incision it requires means that patients have no lengthy recovery.^

At USA Spine Care, we specialize in performing outpatient spinal surgery to treat degenerative joint disease and many other conditions that affect the spine. Contact us today for more information and to find out if you’re a candidate for minimally invasive surgery at USA Spine Care.

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