“What exercises should I do after lower back surgery?”

Dear Patient, After lower back surgery, the primary goals of exercise are to promote healing, improve flexibility, strengthen the supporting muscles, and gradually regain functional mobility. Here are some commonly prescribed exercises that may be included in a post-surgery rehabilitation program: Physical therapy: Your healthcare provider may refer you to a physical therapist who will design a customized exercise program based on your specific needs and surgical procedure. Physical therapy sessions may include a combination of stretching, strengthening, and functional exercises tailored to your condition and recovery goals. Other types of exercise such as walking, core strengthening exercises, flexibility exercises, aerobic exercises etc. Please remember, the exercises you perform after lower back surgery should be done gradually and under the guidance of a healthcare professional. Best regard. Tsai C. Chao MD

"I can offer some general information about exercises that are commonly recommended after lower back surgery. However, it's important to consult with your surgeon and/or a physical therapist who can provide personalized advice based on your specific condition and surgical procedure. They will be able to guide you on the most appropriate exercises for your recovery. That being said, here are a few exercises that are often recommended after lower back surgery: 1. Walking: Walking is a low-impact exercise that can help improve circulation, maintain muscle tone, and promote overall healing. Start with short walks and gradually increase your distance and duration as tolerated. 2. Core strengthening exercises: Strengthening the muscles of your core can provide stability and support for your lower back. Examples of core exercises include gentle abdominal contractions, pelvic tilts, and bridges. These exercises are usually performed under the guidance of a physical therapist. 3. Stretching exercises: Gentle stretching exercises can help improve flexibility and reduce muscle stiffness. Focus on stretches that target the muscles of the lower back, hips, and legs. Again, it's important to work with a healthcare professional to ensure you're performing the right stretches for your condition. 4. Low-impact aerobic exercises: Once approved by your healthcare provider, you may gradually incorporate low-impact aerobic exercises into your routine, such as swimming or using an elliptical machine. These exercises can help improve cardiovascular fitness without putting excessive strain on your lower back. Remember to start slowly and listen to your body. If you experience pain or discomfort during or after any exercise, it's important to stop and consult with your healthcare provider. They can provide guidance on modifying your exercise routine as needed." Sheneeta Watts, PA-C, MMSc *Physician Assistant* | *Preferred Virtual Healthcare <https://preferredvirtualhealthcare.com/>* info@preferredvirtualhealth.com (877) 915-3165 Toll-Free (678) 632-1602 Local Email communication is not secure and may be accessed by unauthorized individuals. If you are sending personal, protected health information or identifiable information related to your health care services or your payment for healthcare services, email is not secure. Email is not encrypted and is not the most secure electronic means of transferring information. By emailing this information, you are assuming the risk of potential access by unauthorized individuals. If transmission of this information via unencrypted email is unacceptable to you, please contact our customer service department via member telephone (877) 915-3165.

I can offer some general information about exercises that are commonly recommended after lower back surgery. However, it's important to consult with your surgeon and/or a physical therapist who can provide personalized advice based on your specific condition and surgical procedure. They will be able to guide you on the most appropriate exercises for your recovery. That being said, here are a few exercises that are often recommended after lower back surgery:

Walking: Walking is a low-impact exercise that can help improve circulation, maintain muscle tone, and promote overall healing. Start with short walks and gradually increase your distance and duration as tolerated.

Core strengthening exercises: Strengthening the muscles of your core can provide stability and support for your lower back. Examples of core exercises include gentle abdominal contractions, pelvic tilts, and bridges. These exercises are usually performed under the guidance of a physical therapist.

Stretching exercises: Gentle stretching exercises can help improve flexibility and reduce muscle stiffness. Focus on stretches that target the muscles of the lower back, hips, and legs. Again, it's important to work with a healthcare professional to ensure you're performing the right stretches for your condition.

Low-impact aerobic exercises: Once approved by your healthcare provider, you may gradually incorporate low-impact aerobic exercises into your routine, such as swimming or using an elliptical machine. These exercises can help improve cardiovascular fitness without putting excessive strain on your lower back.

Remember to start slowly and listen to your body. If you experience pain or discomfort during or after any exercise, it's important to stop and consult with your healthcare provider. They can provide guidance on modifying your exercise routine as needed.

Work with a physical therapist,learn the exercises and continue at home.Make sure your surgeon is in the loop.