Post-Op Spine Rehabilitation

Spinal surgery rehabilitation requires specialized knowledge of surgical procedures, healing timelines, and the balance between protecting the surgical site and restoring function. At The Back Clinic, our therapists have extensive experience rehabilitating patients after all types of spinal procedures.

Common spinal surgeries we rehabilitate include lumbar and cervical discectomy, laminectomy, spinal fusion (single and multi-level), disc replacement, and decompression procedures. Each surgery has unique precautions and progression timelines that your therapist will follow carefully.

• Movement precaution education — Clear guidance on positions and movements to avoid during healing (specific to your surgery)
• Walking program — Progressive walking is typically the cornerstone of early spinal surgery recovery
• Core stabilization — Gentle, progressive reactivation of the deep core muscles that support and protect the spine
• Scar tissue management — Techniques to prevent adhesions and maintain tissue mobility
• Range of motion restoration — Gradual restoration of spinal and extremity mobility within surgical guidelines
• Strengthening progression — Building back, core, hip, and leg strength to support the spine
• Functional training — Returning to daily activities with proper body mechanics

Post-surgical spine rehabilitation timelines vary significantly by procedure. Discectomy patients often begin PT within two to four weeks and recover within two to three months. Fusion patients typically begin PT four to eight weeks after surgery and may require three to six months of rehabilitation.

Early rehabilitation focuses on walking, posture, and protecting the surgical site. As healing progresses, we gradually increase strengthening and functional demands. Your therapist will follow your surgeon’s protocol and communicate regularly to report progress and confirm advancement.

The one-on-one nature of our treatment is particularly important for spinal surgery rehabilitation — your therapist needs to closely monitor your movement quality and tissue response throughout each session.