Post-spinal surgery health care for effective recovery PTP

After spinal surgery, recovery is an important process that requires attention. It is not just about getting enough rest but also about taking proper care of your health to ensure effective and speedy healing. Today, we would like to recommend self-care guidelines after spinal surgery to help you return to a quality life as soon as possible.
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<h2>Health Care After Spinal Surgery for Effective Recovery</h2>
Recovery after spinal surgery will be effective if proper care is given, which can be done as follows:
<ul>
<li>Get enough rest and sleep well by creating a good environment with controlled temperature, no light, and no noise disturbances. Avoid using mobile phones at least 30 minutes before bedtime. Meditation before sleep can help you fall asleep easily and sleep more deeply. Avoid excessive daytime napping as it may worsen nighttime sleep quality. Also, avoid staying in the same position for too long as it may cause pressure sores, muscle weakness, and increase the risk of complications such as deep vein thrombosis.</li>
<li>Move carefully when getting up, sitting, standing, walking, or lying down to prevent injury. Avoid lifting heavy objects. Using a cane or walker to reduce impact or pressure on the spine may be necessary for some patients.</li>
<li>Arrange sleeping posture by choosing a pillow that properly supports the head and neck. The mattress should not be too soft to help keep the spine aligned, reduce pressure, and relieve tension along the spine. Suitable sleeping positions include lying on your back with a pillow under the knees to reduce lower back strain, or lying on your side with a pillow between the knees to help maintain spinal alignment and reduce joint pressure.</li>
<li>Continue physical therapy as soon as the doctor permits to strengthen muscles, increase flexibility, reduce pain, swelling, and inflammation. Applying hot or cold compresses or gentle massage may help relieve discomfort and enhance recovery.</li>
<li>Avoid smoking as it slows bone healing and increases the risk of complications. Avoid alcohol as it may affect the immune system and the body&#8217;s healing process.</li>
<li>Follow up with your doctor as scheduled to assess recovery. If you experience abnormal symptoms such as increased severe pain, swelling, redness of the wound, or fever, seek medical attention immediately.</li>
</ul>
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In addition to the health care mentioned above, good nutrition is an important factor that should not be overlooked.
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<h2>Good Food and Nutrition Help the Body Recover Quickly After Spinal Surgery</h2>
Eating well is crucial for tissue and bone repair after surgery. Recommended foods include:
<ul>
<li>Drink enough water as it helps transport essential nutrients and prevents constipation, a common problem after spinal surgery. This also includes eating fruits high in water and antioxidants such as watermelon, tomatoes, and strawberries.</li>
<li>Protein helps repair tissues, build muscles, and stimulate bone healing. Protein intake should be 1.5-2 grams per kilogram of body weight daily, depending on gender and age. Choose high-protein, low-fat foods such as chicken breast, fish, eggs, tofu, lentils, and Greek yogurt.</li>
<li>Calcium and vitamin D help strengthen bones. Recommended intake is 1,000-1,200 mg of calcium and 600-800 IU of vitamin D per day. It is advised to drink calcium-fortified milk and eat broccoli, egg yolks, sardines, and spinach.</li>
<li>Vitamin C stimulates collagen production, which plays a key role in tissue and bone repair, boosts the immune system, and reduces inflammation. Recommended foods include amla, papaya, bell peppers, kiwi, and sweet potatoes.</li>
<li>Vitamin E is an antioxidant that reduces inflammation, promotes new skin cell formation, and accelerates wound healing. Use vegetable oils such as rice bran oil, sunflower oil, and sesame oil for cooking. Eat spinach and nuts like almonds and sunflower seeds.</li>
<li>Zinc supports the immune system, prevents infection, speeds wound healing, and tissue repair. Zinc is abundant in meat, black beans, red beans, grains, and dairy products.</li>
<li>Magnesium helps relax muscles, reduce cramps, and strengthen bones. It is found in whole grains, dark leafy greens, and pumpkin seeds.</li>
<li>Fiber helps prevent constipation. The recommended intake is 25-30 grams per day. Focus on eating green leafy vegetables, fresh fruits, apples, dried beans, chickpeas, lentils, whole grains, oats, and brown rice. Increase fiber intake gradually to avoid bloating.</li>
</ul>
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Additionally, avoid foods high in sodium, which increase the risk of high blood pressure and water retention, as well as foods high in sugar, which may affect inflammation and the healing process. Always consult your doctor before taking supplements, especially if you have underlying diseases or are on certain medications, as they may affect drug efficacy or cause side effects.
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<h2>Preparing Your Home and Environment for Recovery After Surgery</h2>
Preparing your home and environment for recovery after spinal surgery is very important, especially regarding cleanliness, safety, and comfort. Preparation should include:
<ul>
<li>Prepare a clean and safe area free of obstacles such as wires, rugs, or furniture that may cause tripping. Install handrails in risky areas such as hallways and near the bed to prevent falls. Use non-slip shoes and avoid slippery surfaces like wet tiles. Maintain cleanliness, especially in rooms frequently used by the patient, to prevent infection. Use products without strong odors or harmful chemicals.</li>
<li>Prepare the bedroom by choosing a mattress firm enough to support spinal alignment. The mattress should not sag excessively. Use pillows to support the neck and back to reduce pressure. Arrange the bed at a height that makes it easy to get up. Adjustable beds may be used to minimize unnecessary movement.</li>
<li>Prepare the bathroom by installing grab bars next to the toilet or providing a commode chair to reduce pressure on the spine when sitting and standing. Use a shower wheelchair or chair for patients expected to have a long recovery. Hang the showerhead at a height that does not require reaching or bending excessively. Use non-slip mats on the bathroom floor to reduce the risk of falls.</li>
<li>Prepare lighting by installing automatic lights or lamps that can be turned on and off without getting out of bed. Ensure sufficient lighting, especially in the bathroom and hallways. Use adjustable lighting for eye comfort.</li>
<li>Prepare a relaxing atmosphere such as playing soft music and using aromatherapy with calming scents like lavender or chamomile. Regularly talk to and check on the patient’s condition and needs, as encouragement from loved ones is an important factor that motivates self-care and improves recovery.</li>
</ul>
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Also, keep the phone numbers of doctors, nurses, and family members in an easily accessible place. Have an emergency alert system such as a call bell or cordless phone near the bed to request help immediately in case of emergency.
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<h2>Ways to Reduce Pain After Spinal Surgery</h2>
When experiencing pain from surgery wounds, several methods can help relieve it, such as:
<ul>
<li>Using pain relief medications such as NSAIDs to reduce inflammation, but use cautiously due to possible side effects on the digestive system and kidneys. Paracetamol is a safer alternative. Opioids are used for severe pain but must be controlled to reduce the risk of addiction. Muscle relaxants help reduce spasms but may cause drowsiness and dizziness. Topical anesthetics are suitable for localized pain. Always consult a doctor before using any medication for safety.</li>
<li>Physical therapy helps relieve pain and restore body movement by using massage to relax muscles. In the first 24-48 hours after surgery, cold compresses may be applied to reduce swelling and inflammation. Afterwards, warm compresses can be used to relax muscles. Use these treatments for appropriate durations and avoid direct skin contact. Additionally, electrical stimulation (TENS) can reduce pain, and back support devices can reduce pressure.</li>
<li>Posture and movement adjustment to reduce pressure on the spine. Avoid bending, lifting heavy objects, and crossing legs. Change positions frequently.</li>
<li>Arrange sleeping posture using neck or back support pillows to keep the spine aligned properly. Avoid sleeping on the stomach, which may increase pressure and pain.</li>
<li>Manage stress because stress can worsen pain. Practice deep breathing, meditation, or listen to music to calm and relax the mind.</li>
</ul>
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Recovery after spinal surgery requires careful and continuous care to allow the body to heal and return to full function. Phyathai Phaholyothin Hospital has a team of expert doctors ready to provide comprehensive consultation and care with modern treatment technology to ensure you receive the best care from diagnosis, treatment, surgery, to good and fast recovery.
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Dr. Chawalawut Termtanun 
Orthopedic Surgeon, Specialist in Hip and Knee Replacement 
Bone and Joint Institute

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