Medway Community Physiotherapy service regularly assesses and rehabilitates a variety of spinal surgery including, discectomy, laminectomy and facetectomies, fusion and kyphoplasty.

We provide an initial assessment and follow up sessions including a specific physiotherapist lead, post-operative spinal exercise class. Including a combination of cardiovascular, strengthening, stretching and balance exercises to restore you back to full function.

Commonly asked questions:

Recovery time will differ depending on variable factors (type of surgery, Age, preoperative level etc.) but you would expect to recover within 12-18 months.  

It is important to start exercising as soon as possible after your surgery, as this can reduce pain and improve recovery. Initially, gentle stretching and short walks is advised, as your pain allows.

Try to avoid bracing yourself. Instead, move freely and breath, as this will improve movement and reduce pain.

Ensure you pace yourself with activities of daily living and find an appropriate balance between exercise and rest.

Your physiotherapist will then provide you with a tailored individual exercise programme to aid your recovery.

Do not be concerned if you are still in some pain post surgery as this is normal.

It is not uncommon to still have numbness or pins and needles in the lower limb post-surgery. This can take up to 12-18 months to resolve or it could be permanent.

Returning to work will depend on the work you do. If you lead a sedentary job expect between four to six weeks. If your job is more physically depending then expect between ten to twelve weeks.  However, it is advised to discuss this with your Physiotherapist and Consultant.

You should expect to be able to return to driving within four to six weeks after surgery. Start with short journeys and gradually increase your length of journey. It is advised to discuss this with your Physiotherapist and Consultant.

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