If you have a surgery on the schedule, you’re probably excited about the prospect of finally putting your back pain behind you. Surgery can be the perfect solution for patients who have been unable to find relief through conservative methods, but getting a procedure approved and on the schedule isn’t always a fast process, especially if it is considered an elective procedure. That sentiment is truer now more than ever as the coronavirus is forcing the postponement or rescheduling of tens of thousands of procedures across the US at this very moment.
So if your surgical date is weeks or months away, you’re probably wondering how you can manage pain until you can get in to see the surgeon. In today’s blog, we share some tips for finding back pain relief while you wait for your operation day to arrive.
Treating Back Pain Until You Can Have Surgery
Here are three things you should consider doing to help prevent and treat back pain while you wait for your operation day to arrive.
- Preoperative Rehab – One of the biggest misconceptions about spine surgery recovery is that you have to wait until after your surgery has been completed to restart the recovery process. If you start strengthening the area with controlled exercise and stretching, it will be better equipped to handle the operation and make a speedier recovery after the process. And while it may be a little uncomfortable to strengthen the injured area ahead of surgery, it can help to provide some short-term and long-term pain control by allowing the area to learn how to handle an increased amount of stress. Talk to your surgeon about some preoperative exercise routines that will strengthen your spine and help with pain control.
- Become Posture Aware – This tip is especially poignant for anyone who is having surgery caused by gradual degeneration or an issue that developed over time. Oftentimes we don’t realize how much damage we are doing to our spines throughout our day with innocuous activity. When we’re hunched over in front of our computer or slouched on the couch while looking down at our phones, we’re putting an abnormal amount of stress on the lumbar and cervical portions of our spine. Doing this once in a blue moon won’t lead to long-term damage, but having poor posture habits every day will expedite the gradual breakdown of spinal structures. While awaiting surgery, be more mindful of your posture and work to correct deficiencies to prevent pain before surgery and to prevent future spine problems after your operation.
- Improve Your Diet – Improving your diet can have a surprising effect on pain control as you wait for your day of surgery to arrive. Unhealthy foods are more likely to contribute to spinal inflammation, which can compress structures and lead to more pain. Carbohydrate-dense and sugary foods can make back pain worse. We’re not saying you need to avoid them altogether, but do so sparingly and strive to choose more healthy options. Similarly, making smart food choices can help us maintain or work towards a more optimal weight. The less excess weight you’re carrying, the less pressure that needs to be dispersed by your spine. Losing even just a few pounds can take a lot of pressure off your spine, and in turn help with pain control.
So if you’re trying to control some pain and discomfort prior to spine surgery, keep these tips in mind, and be sure to reach out to your surgeon for individualized advice. For more information, or for help with your back pain issue, reach out to Dr. Sinicropi’s office today.
