Are you getting ready for back surgery? Let's find out exactly what these things are!

If you're scheduled to have back surgery , it's normal to feel a little nervous and anxious about it. "Will this work?", "Will there be any problems later?", "Will I be able to go back to my old self?" Things like that have probably crossed your mind a hundred times. But did you know that there are many things you can do to make the surgery a success? In fact, the more prepared you are, the more likely you are to have a successful outcome.

Today, we'll talk about the 6 most important things you should know, do, and don't do before a spine surgery. These are the experiences of spine surgeons and those who have undergone such operations.

1. Don't stop being physically active!

"Oh, doctor, how can I exercise with this back pain?" you may be wondering. It's true, living with back pain is not easy. But, talking to your doctor, doing the little things you can, and staying as physically active as possible can be a big help after surgery.

Come to think of it, there are two reasons for this:

• Maintaining a healthy weight: It's easier to control your weight when you're active. A person with a healthy weight has a much faster recovery time after surgery.
• Blood circulation: When you exercise, your blood circulation improves, which greatly reduces the risk of complications such as blood clots after surgery.

So, talk to your doctor and ask what simple exercises are right for you.

2. Be well informed about your situation.

This is the truth. Therefore, before signing up for an operation, you should have a good understanding of your medical condition, the surgery you are going to undergo, the options available for it, and what can happen afterwards.

• Ask your doctor good questions. Don't be shy about asking things like, "Why do I need this surgery?", "Are there no other alternative treatments ?", "What is the success rate after this?"
• Read trusted medical websites and research papers. For example, some people may have newer options, such as minimally invasive laser surgery, instead of traditional "open surgery."
• The more aware you are of these things, the more mental strength you will have to face the operation.

3. Avoid taking certain painkillers (this is very important!)

This is something you should definitely follow. You should completely stop taking certain types of painkillers at least a week before your surgery.

Especially medications that fall into the category of `(NSAIDs)` - Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. Examples:

• Ibuprofen
• Naproxen
• Aspirin

Why do we need to stop these?

Simply put, these medications thin your blood. This can lead to unnecessary bleeding during or after surgery. This can be dangerous.

Not only these painkillers, but also some medications for heart disease and nutritional supplements such as omega-3 fatty acids can have this effect.

4. Consider getting a second opinion.

If you have any doubts or just need a little reassurance, there's nothing wrong with seeing another doctor, especially a spine surgeon, for a second opinion. That's your right.

A good surgeon will never be against you getting a second opinion. They encourage it. However, if a doctor tells you, "No, no, don't ask anyone else," or feels like they're pushing you, "Let's do this as soon as possible," that's something to think about.

But there is one exception to this. If you have an emergency, such as a spinal infection, a cancerous tumor, or spinal cord damage, you may need surgery right away.

5. Don't think "everything will be fine after the operation."

Back surgery can make a big difference in your pain and quality of life, and it can bring great relief. That's true. But it's not 'magic.' The surgery is just one part of the healing journey.

There are some things you need to do on your side as well.

• Maintain a healthy weight .
• Do exercises that strengthen your back and abdominal muscles , as advised by your doctor and physiotherapist.
• Eat a healthy diet .
• Avoid smoking and drinking alcohol completely.

If these things are followed properly, the risk of back problems recurring after the operation can be reduced and the results achieved can be maintained in the long term.

6. Get your family involved too.

This is something that many people overlook, but it's very important. It can take weeks, even months, to fully recover from back surgery. You'll have a hard time doing things on your own.

Therefore, sit down with your family (husband/wife, children, parents) and talk about this before the operation.

Let them know in advance, "I'll have trouble working for a while after the operation. I'll need your help." That way, they can be mentally prepared for it too. When they're willing to help you, you'll feel a lot less stressed during your recovery. That's a big boost to a speedy recovery.

Back surgery, back pain, surgery, spine, spinal surgery