Undergoing spine surgery can be scary. Here’s a list of requests from your doctor that can help you get ready. Follow these instructions beforehand and you’ll have a faster rate of recovery.
Stop Smoking
Experienced spine surgeons in Palm Beach, FL, know that getting their patients in peak condition before surgery is essential. Smoking lowers your body’s immune system. That’s why you’ll often hear your doctor advise you to stop smoking if you want to give your body a better chance at recovery.
Control Your Weight
Another standard advice from spine surgeons in Palm Beach, FL, is to lose or manage your weight. Obesity puts more pressure on your joints. If your doctor will insert a spinal implant, controlling your weight can help shorten recovery time.
Manage Blood Sugar Levels
Do you have diabetes? Spine surgeons in Palm Beach, FL, will recommend that you manage your blood sugar levels. Watch your sugar intake since it’ll be dangerous if yours drop too low or spike too high. If your sugar levels are too high, that could lead to an infection. Listen to your doctors when they tell you to cut back on the sugar and stick to a low-sodium diet.
Discontinue Drugs
Some drugs affect your blood’s clotting ability. Aspirin can thin out your blood and that can have disastrous results when you’re on the operating table. That’s why you’ll often hear doctors tell you to stop taking some medications. Listen to them.
Prepare Your Home
Your doctors will also recommend that you clean your home. Prepare your bedroom where you will stay and recover for days. Create a clear path from the bathroom and the door to your bed. Remove any of the clutter that might trip you up. The last thing you want is to land on your feet on the floor days after your spine surgery.
For more advice, don’t hesitate to talk to us. Call Palm Beach Spine and Pain Institute for more details.