What Is the Recovery Time for Back Surgery on L4 and L5?
Quick Answer
The recovery time for surgery involving the L4 and L5 vertebrae varies depending on the procedure, states Mayo Clinic. For laminectomy procedures, recovery can take as little as a few weeks. In cases requiring spinal fusion, recovery can take as long as six months.
Continue Reading
Full Answer
Proper patient recovery from back surgery involving the L4 and L5 vertebrae requires a number of restrictions. A patient who has undergone laminectomy must limit activities that require bending, stooping and lifting for several months after the surgery, according to Mayo Clinic.
Additionally, a patient who has undergone laminectomy or spinal fusion surgery should avoid the use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs in the first six months after surgery as these interfere with the healing process, warns Mayfield Clinic. The patient should also avoid smoking as it increases the risk of complications and delays healing. Driving should be avoided for the first two to four weeks after surgery or until cleared by the surgeon. The patient should also refrain from sitting for extended periods of time and abstain from sexual activity until cleared by the surgeon.
Walking for one to two miles at a time is encouraged during the recovery period, but the return to normal activities must be gradual. Physical therapy may be necessary to restore strength and flexibility, suggests Mayo Clinic.
Learn more about Conditions & DiseasesRelated Questions
-
Q:
What Is the Recovery Like After Laparoscopic Surgery?
A: The recovery time after laparoscopic surgery tends to be shorter than with more traditional surgical methods, and in many instances patients may be able to... Full Answer >Filed Under: -
Q:
On Average, How Long Is the Recovery From a Hernia Surgery?
A: Patients who undergo laparoscopic hernia surgery can expect a one to two week recovery time, while those who undergo an open procedure can expect a three w... Full Answer >Filed Under: -
Q:
What Is the Recovery Time From a Brain Stroke?
A: The recovery time from a stroke varies depending upon its severity and any related complications, states Mayo Clinic. This takes months or years in most ca... Full Answer >Filed Under: -
Q:
What Does the Recovery for Surgery for Severe Stenosis of the Spine (L-4&5) Entail?
A: Spinal stenosis surgery patients are discharged after one to three days and undergo physical therapy that involves back strengthening exercises, notes the ... Full Answer >Filed Under:
You May Also Like
-
Q:
How Can Diabetics Reduce the Swelling of Their Feet?
-
Q:
What Are Some Benefits of the HASA Program?
-
Q:
What Are Some Techniques for Treating Your Own Neck?
-
Q:
What Are the Effects on Anatomy and Physiology of Typhoid Fever?
-
Q:
What Are Some Possible Causes of Losing Your Voice?
-
Q:
What Are the Qualities of the Top Knee Surgeons in the United States?
