If you are preparing to undergo foraminal narrowing surgery, you may be feeling overwhelmed or unsure about the recovery process. Thoughts of pain or dysfunction following neck or back surgery can be frightening whether you are receiving a traditional surgery or one of the minimally invasive procedures available at USA Spine Care. Thankfully, there are several ways to help ensure your recovery process is as comfortable and stress-free as possible.

First and foremost, you should carefully follow your physician’s orders regarding how to recover from foraminal narrowing surgery. No two patients are exactly alike, so you may receive instructions from your physician that another patient will not. With this said, here are some widely accepted tips for recovering from neck or back operations, including foraminal stenosis surgery:

• Arrange for help. You’ll need a family member or friend to assist you in performing some basic tasks in the days following your surgery.
• Eat a nutritious, fiber-rich diet. Nix the junk food and enjoy whole foods with the vitamins and minerals necessary to boost your recovery. Make sure to eat your share of fiber, as pain medications and anesthesia can sometimes cause uncomfortable digestive problems.
• Stay organized. Use a pill box or labeled baggies to organize your medicines (Tylenol, prescription pain relievers, etc.) before you go into surgery. You may feel foggy afterwards, and mismanaging medication may have dangerous consequences.
• Stock up on helpful items. Investing in items like a cane, shower chair, back massager, body pillow and toilet riser will go a long way in making everyday life easier as you recover from surgery. Ask your physician about what products may be most helpful for you.

USA Spine Care features board-certified surgeons+ who walk patients through every step of the recovery process. As our patient, you’ll benefit from our muscle-sparing approach to foraminal narrowing surgery. Our procedures only require a less than 1-inch incision and are associated with fewer risks and shorter recovery periods than traditional open spine operations.^

Contact USA Spine Care if you’d like to receive more information about our procedures. If you’re ready to learn if you are a candidate for treatment, ask us how to receive an MRI review* for free.

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