A laminectomy is a surgical procedure used to alleviate pressure on your spine and nerves caused by degeneration or narrowing of your spine. During a laminectomy, a surgeon removes your lamina -- or the back portion of your vertebra located in front of your spinal canal. A laminectomy can also be referred to as a decompression surgery. MayoClinic.com indicates that 60 to 90 percent of symptoms are reduced in patients who have this procedure. Rehabilitation and exercise are an important part of getting back on your feet following surgery.
Step 1
Talk to your doctor. Find out what exercises are acceptable and when you are permitted to begin exercising.
Step 2
Attend physical therapy. Physical therapy usually lasts for about four to six weeks. A physical therapist will work with you to control pain and inflammation through flexibility and strengthening exercises. You may also receive massages or electrical stimulation treatments to help ease pain and inflammation. Your physical therapist may also teach you how to safely perform everyday tasks as you recover from surgery.
Step 3
Integrate cardiovascular exercise. Cardiovascular exercise can help maintain or improve the function of your heart and lungs. Low-impact exercises -- including walking and swimming -- can help provide you with the benefits of exercise without any sudden jarring movements.
Step 4
Work on your flexibility. Perform knee-to-chest exercises, pelvic tilts and side bends to help improve flexibility in your lower back. Performing these exercises three times per day can help get you back to the activities you enjoy most, according to Oxford Radcliffe Hospitals.
Tips and Warnings
- Mild discomfort is normal following exercise post-laminectomy. Use ice to help control discomfort and inflammation.
- If you experience pain during exercise, discontinue exercise and contact your surgeon immediately.
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