If you have had a discectomy, you may wonder if you can cross your legs after the surgery. Crossing your legs is a common habit that many people do unconsciously, especially when sitting for a long time. However, crossing your legs after discectomy may not be a good idea, as it can affect your recovery and cause some complications. This article will explain why you should avoid crossing your legs after discectomy and what you can do instead to keep your legs comfortable and healthy.
A discectomy is surgery to remove part or all of a disc in your spine that is pressing on a nerve and causing pain. The surgery can relieve symptoms of a herniated disc, such as numbness, tingling, weakness, or sciatica. However, the surgery also involves cutting through surrounding tissue, which can cause some inflammation and bleeding in the area.
Crossing your legs after discectomy can interfere with the healing process and cause some problems, such as:
The ability to cross your legs post-discectomy is often a matter of timing. In the initial stages of recovery, when the surgical site is still healing, it is advisable to avoid any movement that may strain the spine. As time progresses and your healthcare provider gives the green light, you may be able to start gently crossing your legs.
Every individual's recovery is unique. Paying attention to your body's signals is crucial. If crossing your legs causes discomfort or pain, it is essential to refrain from the action and communicate this to your healthcare provider.
To avoid the complications of crossing your legs after discectomy, you should follow these tips:
In the aftermath of discectomy, the question of whether you can cross your legs is a valid concern. However, the answer is nuanced and depends on various factors. By consulting with your healthcare provider, adhering to a well-structured rehabilitation plan, and listening to your body, you can navigate the post-discectomy landscape with confidence. Remember, the goal is not only to regain mobility but also to embrace a lifestyle that prioritizes comfort, health, and long-term wellbeing.
Even though discectomy surgery is a common and generally quite successful procedure, a hole is frequently left in the outer wall of the disc. In fact, patients with these large holes in their discs are more than twice as likely to reherniate.Reherniations often require additional surgery or even fusions. Fortunately, there is a new treatment specifically designed to close the large holes that are often left in spinal discs after discectomy surgery. Barricaid is a bone-anchored device proven to reduce reherniations, and 95 percent of Barricaid patients did not undergo a reoperation due to reherniation in a 2-year study timeframe. This treatment is done immediately following the discectomy—during the same operation—and does not require any additional incisions or time in the hospital.
If you have any questions about the Barricaid treatment or how to get access to Barricaid, ask your doctor or contact us at 844-705-1081.
For full benefit/risk information, please visit: https://www.barricaid.com/instructions.