If you have made the decision with your doctor that spine surgery is the right option for you, you might want to prepare by informing yourself about the specific procedure that you will undergo. Having sufficient information may help you feel more confident about the surgery and may make your recovery process more manageable and positive.
Discuss all aspects of your back surgery with your doctor, including the typical recovery period and what living long-term after the procedure will entail. Learning how much you can move your back, what activities you can do and what type and level of pain you will experience post-surgery is an important first step.
Feeling empowered to ask about your doctor’s experience with your particular spine surgery—number of surgeries, success rates—and getting advice on recovery plans will go a long way to help make your procedure a success. Don’t be afraid to speak up. It’s important for you to let your doctor know if you don’t understand something. Remember to be your own advocate and trust your instincts: you deserve to feel confident in this decision.
