Post Surgery Rehab Toronto // Tag

Spinal fusion surgery is a medical procedure used to permanently join two or more vertebrae in the spine, eliminating motion between them. The goal of the surgery is to reduce pain, correct deformities, or improve stability in the spine.

When would I need Spinal Fusion Surgery?

Spinal fusion surgery is typically recommended for various spine conditions, including:

• Degenerative disc disease: When the discs between vertebrae break down, causing pain.
• Spondylolisthesis: When one vertebra slips forward over the one below it.
• Spinal stenosis: Narrowing of the spinal canal, leading to nerve compression.
• Scoliosis: Abnormal curvature of the spine.
• Fractures: Vertebrae that are broken or dislocated.
• Tumors: Removal of tumors that affect spinal stability.
• Infections: Infections that have caused damage to the vertebrae.

When do I start physiotherapy after surgery?

The timing of when to start physiotherapy after spinal fusion surgery depends on several factors, including the specifics of the surgery, the patient’s overall health, and the surgeon’s recommendations.

What does post-surgery rehab involve?

Immediate Postoperative Period (0-6 Weeks)

• Initial Phase: Physiotherapy may start in the hospital within a day or two after surgery. The focus is on gentle movements and exercises to improve circulation and prevent complications.
• Activities:
  • Breathing exercises to prevent lung complications.
  • Gentle leg movements like ankle pumps to improve blood flow.
  • Log rolling technique for safe movement in and out of bed.
  • Short, frequent walks to promote circulation and reduce stiffness.

Early Rehabilitation Phase (6-12 Weeks)

• When: Typically, more structured physical therapy begins around 4 to 6 weeks after surgery, depending on the surgeon’s assessment.
• Goals: Gradually increase mobility, start gentle strengthening exercises, and improve functional movements.
• Activities:
  • Range of motion exercises.
  • Gentle strengthening exercises for the core and lower extremities.
  • Walking programs to gradually increase distance and duration.
  • Education on proper body mechanics and posture.

Late Rehabilitation Phase (3-6 Months)

• When: Around 3 months post-surgery, assuming there are no complications.
• Goals: Restore full function, enhance strength and endurance, and improve posture and body mechanics.
• Activities:
  • More advanced strengthening exercises using resistance bands or light weights.
  • Low-impact aerobic exercises like swimming or cycling.
  • Balance and coordination exercises.
  • Functional training for daily activities.

Long-Term Rehabilitation Phase (6-12 Months)

• When: After 6 months, the patient should continue with physiotherapy based on individual progress and goals.
• Goals: Achieve optimal strength, flexibility, and functional ability, and prevent recurrence of symptoms.
• Activities:
  • Progressive resistance training.
  • Gradual reintroduction of higher-impact activities, if appropriate.
  • Sport-specific training for athletes.
  • Ongoing education on maintaining spine health.

Key Points to Consider

• Surgeon’s Recommendations: Always follow the specific guidelines and timelines provided by the surgeon, as they know the details of the surgery and individual patient needs.
• Listen to Your Body: Avoid pushing through pain. Pain is a signal that something might be wrong, and it’s important to communicate any discomfort to the physiotherapist or surgeon.
• Individual Variation: Each patient’s recovery is unique. Factors such as age, overall health, and the complexity of the surgery will influence the timing and intensity of physiotherapy.

Starting physiotherapy at the right time is crucial for a successful recovery, and adhering to a structured rehabilitation program can significantly enhance outcomes after spinal fusion surgery.

Click here to book an appointment for post-surgery rehab with a physiotherapist at one of our eight locations.

• Physiotherapy Etobicoke – Triangle Physiotherapy Etobicoke
• Oakville Physiotherapy Clinic – Triangle Physiotherapy Oakville
• Physiotherapy North York – Triangle Physiotherapy North York
• Mississauga Physiotherapy Clinics – Triangle Physiotherapy Mississauga
• Downtown Physiotherapy Clinics – Triangle Physiotherapy King West
• Uptown Physiotherapy Clinics – Triangle Physiotherapy Lawrence Park
• Physiotherapy Clinic Downtown Toronto – Triangle Physiotherapy Queens Quay
• Physiotherapy Clinics Mississauga – Triangle Physiotherapy Erin Mills

_{General Information: The information provided on this blog is for general informational purposes only. While we strive to ensure the accuracy and relevance of our content, we make no guarantees about the completeness, reliability, or accuracy of the information.}

_{Not Professional Advice: The content on this blog does not constitute professional advice. It is not a substitute for professional medical, legal, financial, or other professional advice. Always seek the guidance of a qualified professional with any questions you may have regarding your specific situation.}

Recovering from spinal fusion surgery requires careful physiotherapy to restore mobility and strength. Whether you need physiotherapy in Etobicoke, Oakville, North York, Toronto, Lawrence Park, Queens Quay, Erin Mills, Mississauga, or Liberty Village, there are expert physiotherapists available to guide your recovery journey and help you regain your quality of life.