Post-Discectomy Recovery: Preventing Reherniation
A discectomy is a common surgical procedure to relieve pressure on spinal nerves caused by a herniated disc. While the surgery often leads to significant pain relief and increased mobility, there remains a risk of reherniation, which can cause a recurrence of symptoms and possibly require additional treatment. To ensure a smooth recovery and prevent reherniation, patients should take proactive steps in their postsurgical care. In this article, you will learn how to decrease your risk of reherniation after a discectomy.
Understand Reherniation Risk
Reherniation occurs when the same disc that was operated on herniates again, potentially causing pain and nerve compression. Studies suggest the risk of reherniation varies but can be as high as 5–15 percent within the first year post-surgery. Risk factors include improper movement, premature return to strenuous activities, and inadequate spinal support during recovery.
The first few months after discectomy surgery are particularly critical, as the disc and surrounding tissues are healing and most vulnerable to reinjury. During this period, the surgical site needs time to heal properly while the remaining disc material stabilizes. However, with proper care and attention to prevention strategies, you can significantly reduce your risk of experiencing another herniation.
Follow Post-Surgery Guidelines Strictly
Your surgeon will provide a detailed recovery plan, which typically includes:
- Limited bending, lifting, and twisting (BLT) - These movements put stress on the healing disc.
- Wearing a brace if recommended - Some patients may need spinal support in the initial recovery phase.
- Attending follow-up appointments - Monitoring your recovery ensures timely intervention if issues arise.
Ignoring these guidelines increases the risk of complications and reherniation.
Prioritize Core-Strengthening Exercises
A strong core provides essential support to the spine and reduces the likelihood of reherniation. However, patients must follow a gradual and guided approach to exercise. Recommended core exercises include:
- Pelvic tilts - Strengthen the lower back and abdominal muscles
- Bridges - Engage the glutes and lower back
- Modified planks - Strengthen the entire core without excessive strain
Physical therapy is essential in guiding patients toward safe and effective core strengthening.
Maintain Proper Posture
Poor posture puts unnecessary stress on the spine, leading to increased pressure on the discs. To prevent reherniation:
- Sit with lumbar support - Use a chair with good back support, or place a small pillow behind your lower back.
- Avoid slouching - Keep your shoulders aligned with your hips when sitting or standing.
- Use an ergonomic workstation - Position your computer screen at eye level and keep your feet flat on the floor.
Be Cautious with Daily Activities
Everyday movements can either support or hinder your recovery. To protect your spine:
- Use proper lifting techniques - Always bend at the knees rather than the waist.
- Avoid prolonged sitting - Get up and walk every 30–45 minutes to relieve spinal pressure.
- Sleep in a supportive position - Side sleeping with a pillow between the knees helps with maintaining spinal alignment.
Maintain a Healthy Weight
Excess body weight puts additional stress on the spine and increases the risk of reherniation. To maintain a healthy weight:
- Eat an anti-inflammatory diet - Focus on lean proteins, healthy fats, and vegetables.
- Stay hydrated - Proper hydration keeps the spinal discs well nourished.
- Engage in low-impact exercise - Activities like swimming, walking, and cycling boost fitness without straining the spine. Talk to your doctor before starting any new type of exercise.
Incorporate Low-Impact Exercises
Regular movement is crucial for recovery, but high-impact activities should be avoided. Safe exercises include:
- Walking - Encourages blood circulation and prevents stiffness
- Swimming or water therapy - Reduces stress on the spine while allowing for a full range of motion
- Stationary biking - Provides cardiovascular benefits without excessive spinal impact
Consult your doctor or physical therapist before starting any new exercise routine.
Consider Physical Therapy
A structured physical therapy program is one of the most effective ways to prevent reherniation. A physical therapist can:
- Teach proper movement mechanics
- Design a tailored strengthening program
- Help patients regain mobility safely
Committing to physical therapy significantly improves long-term recovery outcomes.
Avoid Smoking and Excessive Alcohol
Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption negatively impact spine health by reducing oxygen supply to the discs and impairing healing. Quitting smoking and limiting alcohol intake can support disc hydration and recovery.
Manage Stress and Mental Health
Chronic stress and anxiety can lead to muscle tension and poor posture, indirectly increasing the risk of reherniation. Mindfulness techniques such as yoga, meditation, and breathing exercises can promote relaxation and reduce spinal strain.
Recognize Early Warning Signs
Even with precautions, some individuals may still experience signs of reherniation. Be alert for:
- Persistent or worsening back pain
- Radiating pain into the legs (sciatica)
- Numbness or tingling in the lower extremities
- Weakness in the legs
If you experience these symptoms, contact your doctor immediately to address potential complications early.
Preventing reherniation after a discectomy requires a commitment to proper movement, strengthening exercises, and lifestyle modifications. By adhering to postsurgical guidelines, maintaining spinal support, and prioritizing overall health, patients can significantly reduce the risk of reherniation and enjoy long-term relief from back pain. Always consult with healthcare professionals before making changes to your recovery plan to ensure a safe and effective healing process.
Although discectomy surgery is generally a very successful procedure, a hole is left in the outer wall of the disc. Patients with a large hole in the outer ring of the disc are more than twice as likely to experience reherniations after surgery. These reherniations often require additional procedures such as spinal fusion surgery. A new treatment, Barricaid, which is a bone-anchored device proven to reduce the likelihood of a reherniation, was specifically designed to close the large hole often left in the spinal disc after discectomy. In a large-scale study, 95 percent of Barricaid patients did not undergo a reoperation due to reherniation in the 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 today.
For full benefit/risk information, please visit: https://www.barricaid.com/instructions.
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