[Rehabilitation / Postoperative Spine Surgery Questions] Physical therapy post-operatively?

[smcgypsea]

I am having a lumbar adr as part of a research study, Freedom vs. ProDisc, on the 16th. Counting down the days!

My research nurse has stated that patients are not sent to rehab, "unless totally not able to care for themselves".
What are the common protocols for regaining function and Physical therapy? it sounds like they'll do the surgery and that's all they want to do with you, except for follow-up exams. Is that normal? Maybe just for studies? When should I go about getting PT?
She also stated that in the early stages of recovery treadmills and ellipticals are too dangerous, but I can't ride or drive anywhere for the first two weeks. I reallllly hate the cold and I won't make myself go outside.
I'm feeling a little confused about recovery support. Am I imagining this? Anybody else experienced this?

any words of wisdom would be appreciated!
Thanks, stacy

[trkdoc714]

Stacey,

I had my PCP prescribe physical therapy as if I'd had fusion instead of the 2 ADRs. I was very clear with the therapist about the new members of my back so she could better direct me to strengthen the muscles that had been limping around with me for the previous 3 years.

As long as your family physician is aware of the new disc, and consults with the surgeon's office, that should be simple to get started.

I hope that helps,

Bob

[KBear]

I was in the Active L clinical trial and they also did not pay for physical therapy (some of them don't even pay for follow up visits). I was told to have therapy by my surgeon, but it was on my dime. I did it, but would do an appointment, learn what to do, then do it on my own for a week or two, return, add more and then work on my own. I just couldn't afford $100+ a pop therapy (and my insurance sucks, so it only paid like $20 a visit). I have most everything at home to do it on my own, stretch bands, exercise ball, 5 lb free weights and a mat. I've really never had them use anything else, other than a stationary bike. I would definitely do therapy, though don't jump into it too quickly. I don't think I started until the 8 week mark- ask your surgeon for sure.

[mike86]

Find a pool nearby. Hydrotherapy is a huge part of recovery, and there's nothing out there that can replace it!

I can help you draw out some exercises that I did (still do) when I got my lumbar ADR 5 week ago!

By the way, where are you getting your ADR done?

[Cindylou]

About the only item I would add to Kathy's arsenal for physical therapy, and it's even a "fluff" one at that, is one of those cube type ottomans for neutral back exercises, when you want your knees at a 90 degree angle. Probably, any old ottoman would work as long as the dimensions were right. I don't have an ottoman though, and my new pt gave me some homework, utilizing one of these. I'm going to at least price one of these for myself, see if it's not too spendy. I'll report back. Hydrotherapy is awesome, like Mike says, if you can access one in your area. That warm therapy pool was the only thing that would temporarily calm my back down, right after my bike accident.....hanging from a noodle in the deep end, to relieve pressure. Good luck, Cindylou

[petrkr]

Mike can you please scan your therapy plan in? I have 2 M6 and want to get the best mix of Stenum and Nick's PT. I will make up in my mind what are my options and the best result for me.

Especially, water therapy is not covered my Stenum.