How long does it take to recovery (say 90%) from back surgery?

Question

I had a laminectomy/microdiscectomy a month ago, herniated L5-S1. Just wanted to see how others here have done. My personality is to start making up for the past 6 miserable months ASAP, but I'm trying to take it slow and do the PT recommended. Can walk again, but hard to lift more than 7 lbs. Used to go to gym 2-3 times weekly, used 45 lb arm curls with free weights.

Answer 1

~ Hi ~ I'm sorry about what you've been through!  ! I had a microdiscectomy in 2001 and I actually recovered pretty well. The great thing about the surgery was I noticed relief from the pain symptoms almost immediately. I couldn't believe that I LEFT the hospital walking better than when I walked in. I never expected to feel good so quickly. (But, that didn't mean I was I was out of the woods and I still needed to take it slow and reasonable.)

I had to be very careful and not to overdo - when you're injured there's a tendency to want to make up for lost time, so the key is to "listen" to your body and do what's reasonable post-surgery. As long as you follow Doctor's orders and complete PT, your recovery should go pretty smooth. If you notice any pain or anything out of the ordinary it's important to report it to your Surgeon. Communicating with your surgeon's staff anything out of the ordinary is important.

Since you were active and in good shape prior to the surgery, everything should go smoothly with your recovery. Within six weeks you should notice yourself feeling more like your old self - again the key being following your PT's orders and don't overdo. Your PT will make your exercises more challenging as your spine gets stronger again.

Wishing you a smooth recovery!