What to Expect After Your Disc Replacement

Your spinal discs are tiny elements in your body that make a big difference to your quality of life. Discs with a soft gel interior and a harder exterior shell cushion the gaps between each of your spinal bones. 

When healthy, these discs act like shock absorbers, protecting you from back pain, and also allow your back and neck to move freely and flexibly. However, when discs start to deteriorate, it’s likely to cause problems for you, including chronic pain and loss of range of motion.

If one or more of your discs herniates or suffers from damage, you may ultimately need surgical treatment to restore your spine’s strength and integrity. Experienced neurosurgeon Dr. Beejal Y. Amin offers artificial disc replacement surgery and other spinal surgery procedures at his offices in Hinsdale and Woodridge, Illinois.

Dr. Amin uses minimally invasive spinal surgery (MISS) techniques whenever possible, minimizing your risks and recovery time. What can you expect after your disc replacement procedure, both in terms of recovery and in terms of symptom relief? Here’s what you need to know.

Recovering from artificial disc replacement surgery

In your spinal surgery procedure, Dr. Amin removes damaged disc and bone material, and puts artificial elements into the positions where they’re needed. After he closes your incision, your recovery from artificial disc replacement begins.

Dr. Amin offers artificial disc replacement surgery on an outpatient basis, which means that you head home the same day as your procedure and won’t need an overnight hospital stay. You receive instructions on caring for the surgical site, as well as recommendations for pain management with over-the-counter or prescription pain medications if you’ve undergone a cervical spinal procedure.

Your activity gets initially restricted to lifting, twisting, and bending. Some people can return to light activity after the first week, while others need more extensive rest. You can set yourself up for success with your recovery by preparing ahead. Stock pre-cooked, nourishing meals, set up an easy-access bathroom area, and let people in your life know that you’ll need some extra support for a while.

Your recovery takes 3-5 weeks, but it may take longer for other patients. You should plan on avoiding heavy lifting or intense activities for 6-12 weeks after your procedure. Physical therapy helps you regain strength and flexibility in the latter part of the recovery process.

Your results with artificial disc replacement

Once you heal, the artificial elements in your spine work just like natural ones. Surgical disc replacement has a high success rate, with 90-95% of patients reporting lasting symptom relief. You can expect years’ worth of improved spine function with your new artificial disc, allowing you to move freely and without pain.

You may be amazed at how much your life improves once you’re not coping with chronic back or neck pain. Hobbies that were out of reach become accessible to you, and your outlook and stamina improve with the cessation of pain symptoms.

For more information on minimally invasive artificial disc replacement, contact Dr. Amin and schedule a consultation. Book your appointment online or over the phone today.