A herniated disc surgery can be a helpful procedure. However, treatment doesn’t necessarily end with the surgery. After your operation, postsurgery treatment can be key to making a complete and timely recovery. Among other factors, effective postsurgical treatment can play a crucial role in determining your recovery time.

A herniated disc is a spinal injury that occurs when one of the discs positioned between vertebrae in the spine slips or ruptures. Disc injuries can lead to a range of negative symptoms. In many cases, these injuries lead to irritation in surrounding tissue. A herniated disc can also compress the nerves running along the spine, leading to pain and numbness. If you’ve herniated a disc, surgery isn’t always necessary. Depending on the severity of your condition, other treatments like physical therapy can be great noninvasive alternatives.

What is the recovery time for herniated disc surgery?

Recovery is a gradual process. Because of this, it can be difficult to estimate a clear recovery time. While you may recover from some symptoms within a week or two, you may need a few more weeks to regain your full physical capabilities. The kind of surgery you receive will also make a difference. One of the most common surgeries for herniated discs is a discectomy. The goal of a discectomy is to remove part or all of a herniated disc. According to experts, the recovery time for a discectomy ranges between one and four weeks. However, you may not be able to return to your regular activities for six weeks or more. There are plenty of other factors that can influence your recovery time as well. By learning about these factors, you can form a better idea of what your own recovery timeline might look like. Some key factors to consider include:

• Herniation severity — The severity of your disc injury will affect how long it takes to recover from surgery. A more severe injury may require more intensive surgery, which can lead to a more extensive recovery timeline. The size and location of your injured disc will also play a role. As you work toward recovery, the location of your herniated disc may determine where your main symptoms are centered. If you have sustained a disc herniation around the upper part of your spine, for example, you may continue to experience neck pain and stiffness for an extended period after your surgery. Your herniation may also cause significant nerve compression, which could require a longer recovery period. 
• Type of surgery — Herniated disc surgery comes in multiple forms. The type of surgical procedure recommended for your disc herniation will depend on your physical condition and the extent of your injury. Some surgical operations are more invasive than others. A microdiscectomy, which removes an injured disc in the lower part of the spine, may have a relatively low impact compared to other procedures; it requires a smaller incision and typically causes less physical trauma than other types of disc surgery. If you’re trying to estimate your recovery time, it can help to learn more about your specific operation. 
• Age — Another factor that can affect recovery time is your age. In general, healing slows down with age. The bodies of younger people tend to be better at repairing tissue damage and regenerating cells. The effects of aging can be balanced by lifestyle, though. An older person who is exceptionally healthy and physically fit may recover more quickly than most others their age. While age does play a role, it does not dictate your recovery timeline alone.
• Potential complications — Any surgery can come with the risk of complications. If something goes wrong during your surgery, it could extend your recovery time. The main risks associated with disc surgery are excessive bleeding, nerve damage and infection. These issues may need to be addressed by further medical attention or a more extensive recovery process. If you’re concerned about potential complications, you can speak with your physician about the risks associated with your surgery. Preparing for your surgery ahead of time with presurgery rehab can help reduce your risk of complications. 
• Presurgery condition — Your physical condition before your surgery will have a major influence on your recovery timeline. Healthy tissue tends to be resilient and may recover quickly. Staying active can also help you maintain good circulation, which is key to healing. After surgery, any damaged tissue will need nutrients to recover. These nutrients are delivered through blood. By maintaining good blood flow, you can help stimulate your body’s natural healing processes. Want to keep your recovery time short by staying in good shape? Engaging in physical therapy before your surgery can help. Treatment methods like aquatic therapy can help you improve your physical condition in a low-stress environment as you prepare for your operation.
• Postsurgery treatment — Proper postsurgery care is essential to a smooth recovery. Make sure you get enough rest, follow your surgeon’s advice and participate in physical therapy. Actively engaging in your postsurgery treatment can help you minimize your recuperation period.

How to accelerate your herniated disc operation recovery time

If you want to take an active role in your recovery, there are several steps you can take to speed up your recovery timeline and restore your physical capabilities:

• Get rest — After a disc operation, surgeons typically advise rest. An immediate return to intense activities following your surgery can lead to injuries and cause your presurgery symptoms to return. Your body may be especially vulnerable in the days and weeks after your surgery. By resting your body, you can allow it to recover properly. This doesn’t mean you have to be completely inactive, though. Light activity during recovery can be highly beneficial. For example, taking a short walk each day can help improve your circulation and promote faster healing. Your physical therapist can help you find low-impact activities that keep you moving without putting you at risk.
• Follow medical advice — After your surgery, your doctor will probably give you specific instructions. Your doctor’s recommendations will depend mainly on your postoperative condition. If you’re recovering from an extensive surgery, your doctor may recommend that you avoid certain activities that put stress on your spine. For example, you may be advised to avoid heavy lifting for a few weeks. Following these instructions can help avoid complications as you recover. Your doctor may also prescribe medications for pain management and ask that you attend follow-up appointments to monitor progress. To help optimize recovery, surgeons often recommend postsurgery physical therapy.
• Attend physical therapy — Physical therapy can be vital to the recovery process. As you recover, physical therapy can help ensure that you’re making steady progress and regaining your physical capabilities. Postsurgical PT rehab can help reduce pain, increase mobility, strengthen muscles and more. Your physical therapist can work with you to build a personalized treatment plan designed to help you achieve your goals. Your treatment plan may include an array of techniques, ranging from targeted stretches to manual therapy. Incorporating multiple forms of care helps ensure that your treatment is comprehensive and meets all your needs.

Lattimore Physical Therapy can help you before and after surgery

Are you ready to start physical therapy before or after your surgery? Lattimore Physical Therapy is here to help. Our team is committed to offering highly individualized care that treats the whole person. With our help, you can accelerate your recovery and get back to doing what you love.

Contact our team today for more information or to schedule an initial appointment.