Is It Normal to Be Anxious about Lower Back Surgery?

Undergoing lower back surgery can be a daunting experience, often leading to feelings of nervousness and anxiety. Concerns about the surgery itself, the recovery process, and potential outcomes are common among patients. If you are wondering, “Should I be nervous for lower back surgery?” you are not alone. In this article, you will learn about common fears and questions surrounding lower back surgery, what to expect, and practical tips to help you manage your anxiety, helping you make an informed decision and approach the experience with confidence.

Understanding Lower Back Surgery

Lower back surgery, also known as lumbar spine surgery, is often recommended for patients suffering from conditions such as herniated discs, spinal stenosis, or degenerative disc disease and their lower back pain is severe, persistent, and significantly impacting their quality of life. When conservative treatments such as physical therapy, medication, and lifestyle modifications fail to provide adequate relief, surgery may be discussed and potentially recommended by your healthcare provider. Common types of lower back surgery include discectomy, laminectomy, spinal fusion, and artificial disc replacement. The goal of these surgeries is to alleviate pain, restore function, and improve the patient’s overall quality of life.

Addressing Common Fears and Concerns

It is understandable to feel anxious about the prospect of lower back surgery. Here are some of the most common concerns and how to approach them.

Fear of the Surgical Procedure

The thought of undergoing any surgery can be daunting, but it is important to understand that modern lower back surgeries are generally safe and minimally invasive. Your surgeon will explain the specific procedure, its risks, and the steps taken to ensure your safety and comfort.

Concerns about Pain and Recovery

Postoperative pain is a valid concern, but advancements in pain management techniques and medications have made the recovery process more manageable. Your healthcare team will work closely with you to develop a comprehensive pain management plan, and they will guide you through the rehabilitation process to help you regain your strength and mobility.

Worries about Long-Term Outcomes

It is natural to wonder about the long-term success of lower back surgery. While no procedure is guaranteed to be 100 percent effective, the majority of patients experience significant pain relief and improved function following lower back surgery. Your surgeon will discuss the expected outcomes based on your specific condition and the type of surgery recommended.

What to Expect before Surgery

Knowing what to expect can ease some of your nerves. These are the typical steps leading up to lower back surgery:

• Preoperative consultation – You will meet with your surgeon to discuss the procedure, potential risks, and benefits. This is an opportunity to ask questions and clarify any doubts.
• Preoperative testing – Routine tests such as blood work, X-rays, or MRI scans may be conducted to ensure you are in optimal health for surgery.
• Preoperative instructions – You will receive specific instructions on what to eat, drink, and avoid in the days leading up to surgery. This may include discontinuing certain medications.
• Anesthesia consultation – An anesthesiologist will explain the type of anesthesia used during surgery and address any concerns you have about it.

Preparing for Your Lower Back Surgery

Preparing for your lower back surgery can help you alleviate anxiety and set you up for a smoother recovery. Here are some steps you can take:

• Educate yourself – Learn as much as you can about the specific procedure, risks, and recovery process. Ask your surgeon for educational resources, and make sure to voice any concerns or questions you may have.
• Get in shape – Engaging in gentle exercises and strengthening your core muscles can help you improve your overall physical condition and support a faster recovery.
• Arrange for support – Enlist the help of family and friends to assist with daily tasks and household responsibilities during your recovery period.
• Quit smoking – Smoking can impede healing and increase the risk of complications, so it is important to quit or at least significantly reduce your tobacco use before the surgery.
• Manage expectations – Understand that the recovery process takes time and patience. Work closely with your healthcare team to set realistic goals and have a plan in place to address any setbacks.
• Visualize a positive outcome – Positive visualization techniques can reduce anxiety. Picture yourself recovering successfully and returning to your normal activities.
• Practice relaxation techniques – Deep breathing, meditation, and mindfulness can be effective in calming the mind and reducing stress.
• Join a support group – Connecting with others who have undergone similar surgeries can provide comfort and practical advice. Hearing their experiences can alleviate your fears.

What to Expect during Surgery

Lower back surgeries typically last between one to four hours, depending on the complexity of the procedure. Here is what happens during the surgery:

• Anesthesia administration – General anesthesia is commonly used, ensuring you are asleep and pain free throughout the procedure.
• Surgical procedure – The surgeon will make an incision in the lower back to access the spine and perform the necessary corrective actions, such as removing a herniated disc or fusing vertebrae.
• Monitoring and support – Throughout the surgery, a team of healthcare professionals will monitor your vital signs and provide necessary support.

What Happens Post-Surgery 

The postoperative phase is a critical period for recovery and rehabilitation. Here is what you can expect:

• Recovery room – Immediately after surgery, you will be taken to a recovery room where healthcare professionals will monitor you as you wake up from anesthesia.
• Pain management – You will be given pain medications to manage postoperative discomfort. Your healthcare team will work with you to find the best pain management strategy.
• Physical therapy – Physical therapy is often introduced early to restore movement, strength, and function. The therapist will guide you through exercises tailored to your needs.
• Follow-up appointments – Regular follow-up appointments with your surgeon will be scheduled to monitor your progress and address any concerns.

Tips for Managing Post-Surgery Anxiety

Even after the surgery, it is common to feel anxious about recovery. Here are some tips to manage post-surgery anxiety:

• Follow medical advice – Adhere to your surgeon’s postoperative instructions and attend all follow-up appointments to ensure a smooth recovery.
• Stay active within limits – Light activity, such as walking, can boost your mood and promote healing. Make sure to follow your physical therapist’s guidance.
• Maintain a healthy diet – Proper nutrition can aid in recovery and boost your overall mood.
• Practice self-care – Take time to relax and engage in activities that make you feel good, whether it is reading, listening to music, or spending time with loved ones.

It is completely normal to feel nervous about lower back surgery. Understanding the process, preparing mentally and physically, and knowing what to expect before, during, and after surgery can reduce anxiety. Remember, the goal of the surgery is to improve your quality of life by alleviating pain and restoring function. Trust in your healthcare team, stay informed, and take proactive steps to manage your anxiety. With the right mindset and preparation, you can face your surgery with confidence and optimism.

If you have a herniated disc in your lower back that is not responding to conservative treatment, a lumbar discectomy may be discussed and potentially recommended. Although this is generally a very successful procedure, having a large hole in the outer ring of the disc more than doubles the risk of needing another operation. A new treatment, Barricaid, is a bone-anchored device that closes this hole, 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, ask your doctor or contact us at 844-288-7474.

For full benefit/risk information, please visit: https://www.barricaid.com/instructions.