An anterior discectomy with fusion is a surgical procedure used to help treat degenerative disc conditions in your spinal column. With the procedure, your surgeon will remove the affected disc and replace it with either a metal spacer and fuse the two adjacent bones to the spacer. Following the procedure, you will have to take it easy for a while and undergo rehabilitative therapy to help restore strength, stability and range of motion to your spine.
First Week
During the first week following your surgery, your therapist is likely to encourage you to get moving, often recommending that you take short, gentle walks. During this time, you will begin stretching exercises that focus on the muscles of your upper legs and back. Perform these exercises and activities at the direction of your doctor or therapist, and stop immediately if you feel sharp or severe pain in your back.
Weeks One Through Nine
During this phase of treatment, you will include exercises with minimal torso motion. These exercises help stabilize the muscles and other structures around your injury. Some of the exercises and activities during this period include bridging positions to help strengthen your core muscles, marching activities to help stimulate blood flow without too much stress on your back and stretching exercises.
Weeks Six Through 12
As you progress during the above rehabilitation period, your therapist is likely to begin including dynamic stabilization exercises that help strengthen your torso with active movement. These exercises allow you to move your torso when exercising, and also include exercises using resistance bands to help strengthen your muscles. You also may be instructed to begin working on an exercise ball to help stabilize your muscles.
Weeks Nine Through 12
After a couple of months, and depending on your progress during the initial rehabilitative period your doctor or therapist may begin prescribing more vigorous exercises during this period. These exercises can include brisk walking, swimming and using gym equipment. You may be able to begin taking aerobics classes or going for a run during this period, but always tell your doctor or therapist if you feel any sharp pain or severe aching when exercising.
References
- University of Southern California Center for Spinal Surgery: Anterior Lumbar Interbody Fusion
- Spine-Health; Rehabilitation Following Lumbar Fusion; Ron Miller, PT
- Spine-Health; Moving From Static To Dynamic Exercises; Ron Miller, PT
- Spine-Health; Vigorous Low Impact Conditioning for Rehabilitation; Ron Miller, PT
