How to Manage Back Pain While Waiting for Surgery
If you have spine surgery scheduled, managing your symptoms in the meantime can help you stay active and prepare for recovery. Taking the right steps before your procedure can also improve your overall health and reduce post-surgery discomfort.
Helpful strategies include:
- Follow your doctor’s guidance on safe activity levels
- Use prescribed or over-the-counter pain medication as directed
- Apply heat or cold packs to reduce pain and stiffness
- Practice gentle stretching and low-impact exercises approved by your doctor
- Maintain good posture when sitting or standing
Your doctor might recommend physical therapy before surgery to strengthen the muscles that support your spine. This pre-surgical conditioning can shorten recovery time and improve long-term results.
Focus on healthy habits such as eating a balanced diet, avoiding smoking, and staying hydrated. Quality sleep is also important for healing and maintaining a positive mindset.
Avoid movements and activities that increase pain or risk injury, such as lifting heavy objects or engaging in high-impact workouts. Use supportive chairs and cushions to make sitting more comfortable.
By managing your pain well and taking care of your body before surgery, you can set yourself up for a smoother recovery and a quicker return to daily activities.
Virginia Spine Specialists is an award-winning, minimally invasive spinal care practice with locations in Fredericksburg, VA and Manassas, VA. We also serve these Northern and Central Virginia locations: Haymarket, Gainesville, Culpepper, Front Royal, Spotsylvania, Stafford, Colonial Beach, Tappahannock and Lake Anna.
