Spine surgery is a major trauma on your back and body, so you’re not going to be able to return to work the day after your operation. That said, we know that your job is how you make a living, so we understand that you’re going to want to get back to work and continue earning a paycheck as soon as possible. So that begs the question, “when can I return to work after spine surgery?”
As you might imagine, the answer to that question is “it depends.” In today’s blog, we take a closer look at what factors influence when you’ll be able to return to work following a spinal procedure.
Returning To Work After Spine Surgery
Your ability to return to work will depend on a number of different factors, only some of which are in your control. Here’s a look at some of the controllable and uncontrollable factors that dictate when you can return to work following back surgery.
- The Procedure – Your specific procedure will play a significant role in your return to work timeline. For example, if you underwent a fusion procedure, you will need to take more time off than someone who had problematic bone spurs removed. While you can’t always control the specifics of your procedure, you may be able to reduce your recovery timeline by choosing a surgeon who can use minimally invasive techniques to perform the correction. Minimally invasive surgeries are less taxing on the body and can decrease your recovery time, helping you get back to work sooner.
- Your Job – Your job and the duties you perform on a regular basis will also have an impact on when you can return to work. If you work in an office, you’ll likely be able to return to work much faster than someone who is on their feet all day or someone who performs manual labor. You may also be able to return to work quicker if you can perform some tasks from home if your recovery makes your work commute difficult.
- Your Rehab Effort – Recovery and return to physical function won’t just happen on its own after spine surgery. You’ll get out what you put in, so it’s important that you give it your all during your rehabilitation period. Being active and participating in your physical therapy sessions will help to spur recovery, and that can get you back to work sooner. You don’t need to wait until after your surgery is complete to work towards becoming a stronger version of yourself!
- Job Flexibility – If your employer is willing to be a little flexible, you may be able to return to work sooner than expected following a spinal procedure. You’ll want to make sure that you stay within any restrictions put forth by your treating physician, but if your employer is willing to work within these restrictions, you may be able to return to work. You may only be able to work in a part-time capacity or in a different role than normal, but if your job is willing to stay within your restrictions, you can talk to your surgeon about getting clearance to return to your job.
- Choosing The Right Surgeon – Finally, you’re more likely to be able to return to work in a quicker capacity if you trust your operation to a surgeon with a great track record of delivering fantastic results. Dr. Sinicropi has helped thousands of patients get back to work in a quick and safe manner, and he’d be happy to help you do the same. Make sure that you do your research prior to choosing your surgeon so that you have confidence that they are the right surgeon for your needs.
There are a number of factors that influence your ability to return to work, but if you put your faith in an experienced surgeon and are willing to put in the work during your recovery, you may be able to get back to work a little sooner. For more information, or for help with a spinal issue, reach out to Dr. Sinicropi and the team at The Midwest Spine & Brain Institute today at (651) 430-3800.
