Spinal stenosis -- a narrowing of your spinal cord -- can create numbness, chronic pain and weakness in your arms and legs. As a result, spinal decompression surgery may be performed in order to provide relief. This procedure is known as a laminectomy. A laminectomy involves removing the portion of the vertebra that is affected by spinal stenosis. Recovery from a decompression laminectomy can last anywhere from four to six weeks. During this time, your doctor is likely to recommend a series of exercises to aid in your recovery.
While in the Hospital
Small exercises are encouraged while you are still in the hospital following your surgery. A doctor or physical therapist will instruct you how to perform exercise in bed or while seated. You will be instructed on how to perform quad sets, gluteal sets, ankle circles, ankle pumps, straight leg raises, heel slides and pelvic tilts. You will also not be permitted to leave the hospital until you are able get up and walk around. Performing exercises while still in the hospital will help you regain your strength as well as reduce your risk for postoperative complications including blood clots.
Walking
Following your surgery, your doctor or physical therapist will encourage you to engage in functional exercises to help with your body mechanics. Your body mechanics may have to adapt slightly due to the changes in your spine. You will be encouraged to walk as soon as possible to work on your body mechanics. In addition, walking is also an ideal cardiovascular exercise for a patient recovering from a laminectomy. Walking helps to stabilize your back and maintain strength in your legs as you recover.
Water Exercises
Water exercise is a low impact activity that can include swimming, aerobics or simply walking within the shallow end of the pool. These types of exercise reduce the stress felt on your joints during dry-land exercising. The water surrounding your body can also add resistance to your workout making for a more difficult workout that is still stress free. Your doctor is likely to recommend this type of exercise because your spine is highly unlikely to be injured while exercising in water. You cannot fall and are highly unlikely to strain your back while exercising in water.
Stabilization Exercises
Strengthening and stretching exercises following surgery can help to relieve the pressure off of your back and speed oxygen to your muscles which can help to promote a quicker recovery. Your doctor or physical therapist will instruct you on exercises that help to strength your legs and stabilize your back. You can complete quadriceps and hamstring stretches, exercises with a therapy ball, wall squats, lunges, squats, crunches, hip extensions and back bends at the discretion of your doctor and physical therapist. Never perform any exercise to the point where you are experiencing pain.
References
- Mayfield Clinic: Spinal Decompression Laminectomy
- eOrthopod: Lumbar Laminectomy
- Gem City Bone and Joint: Laminectomy
- NASM: Essentials of Personal Fitness Training; 2008
