The following were instructions given by my Doctor Martin D. George for post operative care for a microdiscectomy. The no driving for a month is really gonna suck…I’m sure this is a rule because of the medications and the fact that if you break to hard or have to make a sudden stop it could really irritate your back.
Activity:
1.) No bending, pushing, pulling, straining, or heavy lifting greater than a gallon of milk.
2.) Do not bend and twist or reach.
3.) Try to maintain your spine in a neutral position as much as possible.
4.) Try to stay out of the car as much as possible. No driving for one month after surgery.
5.) Being walking. Frequent short distances are better, increasing the distance as tolerated. Your goal is 1 mile by your one month post operative visit.
6.) Dr. Martin will determine if you can resume sexual activity at your first post operative visit.
Incision Care:
1.) Post operative visit with Dr. Martin is scheduled for one month after surgery and was scheduled at your last office visit.
2.) Keep the incision dry for 5 days after surgery. You c an use a simple piece of plastic with tape along the edges of the incision during showers. Do not leave it on after showering.
3.) After the 5th day you can leave the incision uncovered to air dry. Do not put any ointments, alcohol, or peroxide on the incision.
4.) Call the office if there is any redness, swelling, or drainage from or around the incision, or if fever develops.
5.) Expect to have some pain after surgery. You might also experience some numbness and tingling in your legs. All of this is normal. If it becomes bothersome, please call our office.
6.) Remember, healing takes time.
Medications:
1.) Take the pain medication prescribed only as needed.
2.) Narcotics can cause drowsiness so no driving while using these medications. They can also cause constipation, so eat plenty of fruits and vegetables and drink plenty of water. If the constipation becomes a problem you can take an over the counter stool softener and if that does not help please contact our office.
3.) No blood thinners: Plavix, Coumadin, Aspirin, Vitamin E, or Fish Oil for 2 weeks after your surgery unless otherwise specified.
