5 Must-Have Items to Get Before Spine Surgery
When spine surgery is successful, it can lead to increased productivity at work and a more active and social lifestyle. But before you reach the point where you enjoy these benefits, you’ll need to spend some time recovering. This is why you’ll want to be as prepared as possible when it comes to what you’ll need at home as your spine heals and your strength, flexibility, and mobility improves. Here are five items you’ll likely appreciate having around as you recover.
1. Toilet Riser
Getting up and down from a toilet can place added pressure on your lower back. Designed to fit firmly in place, a riser elevates your seat about eight inches. On a related note, ask the orthopedic specialist performing your procedure about stool softeners and laxatives to help ease issues with constipation that are common after surgery.
2. Slip-On Shoes
The daily task of bending to tie shoes is sometimes too stressful for a healing spine, especially if your procedure is being done within the lower spine area. Slippers can also work. Just make sure they have a backing that minimizes the risk of slipping or falling.
3. Grabbing/Reaching Devices
Reaching for stuff you need from higher or lower shelves can place more strain on your spine than you may realize. Grabbing and reaching devices are operated with hand movements that control a gripping apparatus at the other end. They’re usually capable of safely lifting lighter items like socks that fell on the floor or a box of facial tissues quickly and efficiently.
4. Water Bottle
It’s important to stay sufficiently hydrated following spine surgery. However, the act of reaching over to sip from a glass several times a day may be too stressful for your healing spine. Opt for a covered sports bottle with a flexible straw for easy access to water.
5. Prepared Meals
Standing for long periods of time, bending, reaching, and stirring are movements that aren’t all that conducive to proper healing following spine surgery. Instead, stock up on prepared meals that can be easily heated up. Nutrient-rich shakes and healthy convenience foods can also come in handy.
Another step you can take is to place items you know you’ll use every day, like grooming products and utensils, within easy reach. If your bedroom is upstairs, you may also want to set up a temporary sleeping area on the first floor. Finally, make arrangements for friends, neighbors, and family members to help out with things such as regular errands and some more demanding household tasks.
