Lumbar Discectomy Post-Operative Instructions

Activity in General:

• If sitting, use only a straight back chair to ensure proper support not to exceed a half hour at a time. You may increase your sitting time slowly.
• Lie only on a firm mattress, no couches or recliner chairs.
• You may lie on your back or side, but not on your abdomen.
• Absolutely no bending, stooping, pushing, lifting or straining.
• We encourage 2-3 naps daily, you will be tired post-operatively.
• Avoid housework, especially vacuuming and sweeping.
• OK to cook, as long as you are not lifting anything heavier than 10 pounds.
• Learn proper body mechanics to maintain a neutral spine position.
• Increasing pain is a red flag telling you to rest.
• DO NOT: Engage in strenuous activity for at least 10 weeks after surgery.

1st Week Post-Operative:

• May ride in a vehicle as a passenger, but no driving and no extended road trips. Keep the time in the car less than 20 minutes.
• Walk around in your home on a smooth, flat surface. Try to be ambulating half of the day.
• You may stair climb with assistance.
• Do not lift anything heavier than 10 pounds.
• Take pain medication as directed, don’t try to “tough it out.” You will heal quicker if you feel better.

2nd Week Post-Operative:

• Make sure to make your first post-op visit.
• An exercise program will be discussed at your first visit.
• OK to drive less than 20 minutes at a time if tolerated as a passenger.
• Increase your walking to 1 mile per day if tolerated well.
• Light housework but still no vacuuming or sweeping.
• Refrain from sexual activity.

3rd Week Post-Operative:

• You may resume sexual activity if relatively pain free.
• Increase walking time and housework as tolerated.
• If you need to lift anything, do not exceed 25 pounds and use proper body mechanics.
• OK to use a hot tub or spa if you are “scab free.”

4th Week Post-Operative:

• Gradually increase walking to 1-2 miles daily or as tolerated.
• Increase driving time as tolerated.
• Increase housework as tolerated.
• Return to work will be discussed with Dr. Song and will be patient specific.