It’s Important to Follow Post-Operative Instructions

Once you agree to a surgical procedure, it’s critical to gain a clear understanding of what the recovery process looks like. Furthermore, once you have post-operative instructions in hand, it’s a must to understand them from start to finish.

Here are some of the many things outlined in post-operative instructions (as they pertain to back or neck surgery):

•    Medication
•    Caring for the incision site
•    Bathing or showering
•    Expected pain
•    Observations
•    Follow up care and visits
•    Tobacco use
•    Physical therapy
•    Things to avoid

For example, here’s what our general post-operative instructions say about pain medication:

Pain medication is to be taken if needed up to the frequency indicated. If the pain medication is not needed it should not be taken. There will not be any early refill of pain medication except for outstanding circumstances, final decision on this is made by the medical provider, not the office staff.

When you follow your post-operative instructions, you give yourself the best chance possible of making a fast and full recovery. Conversely, if you don’t adhere to the instructions, it puts your recovery and health at risk – and that’s not something you want to do.

Final tip: should you have any questions about post-operative instructions, don’t hesitate to consult with your doctor and/or office staff.

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.