Post-Operative Care Instructions

It is not unusual to feel some pain, numbness, tightness, burning or other "funny" feelings for a while following your operation. Usually these sensations will lessen and mostly go away with time. Numbness can last for weeks to months.
It is normal for your surgical area to be sore after surgery. This should improve day to day.

No driving for 10-12 days
Ice 15-20 minutes 4-5x daily for 48 hours
No lifting greater than 10# (Gallon milk)
Squat. Avoid “BLT” Bending, Lifting, Twisting
Ambulation on flat even surfaces is encouraged several times daily
No sexual intercourse for 10-14 days. Mat resume after this time when comfortable.
Using a pillow under knees or between knees if sleeping on your side may help with lumbar surgery
Avoid tobacco and nicotine products for wound healing

Dressing change is OK if it becomes wet or soiled. It is common for small amount of bleeding the first 24-48 hours but this should lessen each day.
Shower is OK but change the dressing after the shower is complete. Make sure the wound is completely dry before replacing the dressing. Do not leave a wet dressing on the skin.
No bathtubs, hot tubs, swimming pools, whirlpools, and the like, are not allowed. Do not let the shower water "beat" on your incision
No creams, lotions, potions, salve, ointment or Vitamin E on your incision during the first 2-4 weeks after surgery.

Aspirin 325 mg daily x 4 weeks unless otherwise directed.
Pain medication/ muscle relaxants as directed. Do not drive with these medications
Call for refills during office hours only. Refills will not be completed at night or weekends
Colace, Mirlax, or mag citrate as directed for constipation

If you notice any problems with your incision, such as severe redness, drainage, swelling, etc., please call the office as soon as possible for instructions.
Fever greater than 101.5 which does not resolve quickly
Bowel or bladder incontinence
Go to the Emergency Department/ call 911 for chest pain or shortness of breath