The spine is a complex network of vertebrae, discs, ligaments, muscles, and nerves. Most spinal surgeries should be followed by rehabilitation to alleviate pain and regain control of your spine. Depending on the spinal surgery performed, different treatments are performed by physical therapists to reduce pain and regain motion, posture, and strength. Failing to attend physical therapy sessions may leave the patient with chronic pain, lost motion, poor posture, and weak muscles.
Decreasing Pain
Pain is a common concern after spinal surgery. Physical therapists use modalities such as electric stimulation, ice, and heat to reduce pain and inflammation. They may also use some hands-on techniques, such as massage or joint mobilization. These techniques stimulate receptors in the skin, muscles, and joints to relieve pain. Physical therapists will also teach techniques to self-manage the pain. Failure to adequately address the pain may result in delayed healing and loss of function.
Regaining Motion
Some spinal surgeries can result in joint stiffness and loss of muscle flexibility. This loss of motion can be a cause of pain after spinal surgery. Therefore, certain stretches can be beneficial. The physical therapist will advise on appropriate stretches based on the type of spinal surgery. Those that do not participate in physical therapy miss the opportunity to be educated in these techniques, which may result in a loss of joint mobility and muscle flexibility.
Normalizing Posture
Spinal surgery alters the mechanics of the spine, the way that the muscles, bones, and joints work. It is important to learn different exercises from the physical therapist to regain normal postural mechanics. Sometimes, regaining normal posture is not possible, so the physical therapist will teach the patient alternative techniques to perform daily activities. Using these alternative methods will lessen the risk of future injury. An example is to avoid twisting the back by instead moving the entire body.
Regaining Strength
Strength of the trunk muscles is often diminished after spinal surgery. This is due to the lack of functional movement after surgery due to the pain and lack of spinal motion. A physical therapist can help to reduce pain, improve muscle flexibility and increase available motion after surgery. Physical therapy is important to strengthen the weakened muscles after surgery. If the muscles are not strengthened after surgery, the spine is set up for new injury while performing daily activities.
