No matter what kind of back or neck surgery you have, there is going to be a period of recovery at home where you are managing some pain or discomfort. However, there are many small things you can do to make yourself more comfortable.

First of all, one of the most common misconceptions is that a person who has just had surgery should take it easy and stay lying down. Keeping still, however, is actually a bad idea when you’re recovering from back or neck surgery. Staying in the same position for extended periods of time will actually lead to stiffness and additional pain. It’s best to move regularly or to change positions at least every half hour or so. If you are unable to avoid a long car ride, be sure to take breaks every now and then to stop and move around. Your doctor will most likely provide you with instructions for appropriate exercises to keep you moving, so be sure to follow those recommendations.

Another important part of recovery is getting a good night’s sleep. Especially after just having discussed the importance of frequent movement and changing positions, sleeping for a solid eight hours may seem like an off-putting task; however, a full night of continuous sleep is beneficial for any medical recovery. It won’t be surprising if you find your nighttime sleeping disturbed due to medications or discomfort. However, there are several things you can do to try to maintain your normal sleeping habits. First, try to avoid extra naps or excessive rest during the day; this is something that you will likely feel inclined to do, but you’re sure to have a harder time sleeping through the night if you sleep too much during the day. If possible, try to schedule medications that cause drowsiness to be taken before bed. As for sleeping comfortably, just focus on finding a position that works best for you that doesn’t involve twisting the spine. If you prefer sleeping on your side, try putting a pillow between your knees, and if you sleep on your back, put the pillow underneath your knees so that they are slightly bent. This will help to take the strain off of your lower back and hopefully lessen the discomfort you feel while sleeping.

If you feel stressed or anxious after having back or neck surgery, you are not alone. So many things could contribute to these feelings after surgery, such as the medication you’re taking, financial obligations, being home from work, or any number of other factors. It has been shown, however, that patients who have a positive attitude and low levels stress are more likely to experience less pain and have faster recovery times. Be sure to devote some time to some of your favorite activities to help you keep your sanity. Your doctor may also have some information about breathing exercises and other activities you can do at home to keep stress levels to a minimum.

The most important advice anyone can give you following back or neck surgery is to follow any directions your doctor gives you and to call and talk to your doctor if you have any questions or concerns at home. Also, if anything causes you pain, don’t do it. While you should be trying to follow your doctor’s instructions, which most likely advise you to increase your walking every day, if an activity is causing you too much pain, stop and talk to your doctor. As they say, it’s better to be safe than sorry.

John Soland is a lifestyle expert who is able to offer advice and insight on a multitude of topics, including those pertaining to neck and back pain.

John Soland is a lifestyle expert who is able to offer advice and insight on a multitude of topics, including those pertaining to neck and http://www.spineseminar.com/ back pain.

Author Bio: John Soland is a lifestyle expert who is able to offer advice and insight on a multitude of topics, including those pertaining to neck and back pain.

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