What to Expect Following Spinal Cord Stimulator Implant Surgery

Undergoing spinal cord stimulator implant surgery is a significant step toward managing chronic pain. Knowing what to expect with spinal cord stimulator implant surgery post-op is crucial for a smooth recovery and effective pain management.

Initial Recovery Phase

Immediately after the procedure, you should allow your body to heal properly. For the initial few days, your movements will be restricted to prevent any disturbance to the stimulator leads. Activities such as bending, stretching, and lifting objects heavier than five pounds should be avoided. It’s common to experience some swelling at the site of the stimulator, but this should subside over time.

Activity Resumption

Can you resume physical activity after the surgery? Yes, but it must be gradual. Walking is encouraged after a few days, and slowly, you can increase your physical activities. However, for the first two weeks, avoid any strenuous activity like lifting heavy items, twisting, or bending excessively. Patients typically resume most of their normal physical activity 8 weeks after surgery, but this can vary depending on individual recovery rates and job requirements.

Incision Care

Taking care of the incision site is essential. The incision for this surgery is generally small and minimally invasive, but keeping it clean and dry is crucial to prevent infection. For the first few days, opt for sponge baths instead of showers or baths.

Follow-up Appointments

Regular follow-up appointments play a significant role in your recovery. You’ll likely have your first post-op check-up a week after the surgery to monitor the incision site and manage any pain. Subsequent appointments, including X-rays and device setting adjustments, ensure the stimulator is functioning correctly and your recovery is on track.

Understanding Your Pain Management

Are you put to sleep for spinal cord stimulator surgery? Yes, general anesthesia is typically used, ensuring you’re comfortable and pain-free during the procedure. Once you’ve recovered, it’s important to gauge the effectiveness of the nerve stimulation. A successful outcome is usually marked by at least a 50% reduction in pain.

Long-term Recovery and Physical Therapy

Continuing with a less strenuous workload is recommended for the first 6 to 9 weeks post-op. If your job involves heavy lifting or repetitive movements, you might need more time before resuming these duties. Engaging in physical therapy aids in long-term recovery, helping you regain strength and mobility.

Choosing the Right Pain Management Partner

Spinal cord stimulators in Chicago have shown great success in decreasing chronic pain, enhancing life quality, and reducing reliance on pain medications. How long recovery is after spinal cord stimulator surgery often surprises patients—with many returning to normal activities within 8 weeks. Discover lasting relief with pain management in Chicogo, your trusted expert for spinal cord stimulation in Chicago.

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Can You Resume Physical Activity After Receiving a Spinal Cord Stimulator?

Your journey toward a more active lifestyle after receiving a spinal cord stimulator can be both exhilarating and daunting. For those who have lived with chronic pain, the introduction of a spinal cord stimulator is a significant milestone. This device, which is surgically implanted to alleviate pain, paves the way to reclaim activities once hindered by discomfort.

What Is Spinal Cord Stimulation?

Spinal cord stimulation involves implanting thin wires and a pacemaker-like battery near the buttocks or abdomen. These wires, placed in the epidural space near the spinal cord, and the battery work together to deliver electrical impulses controlled by an external remote. This technique can directly impact various muscle groups and change pain perception in the brain. Traditional stimulators create a tingling sensation, while newer models provide imperceptible stimulation.

Initiating Physical Activity With a Spinal Cord Stimulator

Once the device is in place, the urge to dive back into an active routine is natural. However, patience is key. Initially, avoiding strenuous activities like bending, lifting, and stretching is crucial for healing. Light exercises, such as walking, are encouraged to build strength. This slow, steady approach ensures both the patient’s safety and the integrity of the device.

A typical exercise after spinal cord stimulator implantation plan might look like this:

In the first week, engage in basic trunk stabilization exercises to strengthen core muscles. Safe home exercises can include mini squats and stepping exercises.
From the second to the fifth week, gradually include lower extremity and gentle upper body exercises.
By the sixth to eighth week, non-cardiovascular pool exercises can be added for enhanced core strength and conditioning.
Post-eight weeks, patients may gradually return to work after spinal cord stimulator implantation and resume regular recreational activities, maintaining a consistent exercise regimen.

High-impact activities like jogging or sports might be restricted to prevent lead displacement.

Living With Restrictions

Living with a spinal cord stimulator in Chicago or elsewhere comes with certain restrictions for the safety of the wearer and the protection of the device. For instance, turning off the stimulator while driving or operating heavy machinery is advised to avoid distraction. Also, special care should be taken during medical procedures like X-rays and MRIs.

Consulting With a Spine Specialist

At Gateway Spine & Pain Physicians, our spine specialists are here to offer personalized guidance and support, helping you understand the dos and don’ts with a spinal cord stimulator. Let us assist you in safely returning to an active lifestyle and embracing a future with less pain and an enhanced quality of life. Contact us now for expert care tailored to your unique needs.

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Tag: Spinal Cord Stimulator