Spinal fusion is a surgical procedure that is performed to join two or more vertebrae together in order to stabilize the spine. It is commonly used to treat conditions such as degenerative disc disease, spinal stenosis, and herniated discs. One concern that many people have about spinal fusion is the potential loss of mobility after the surgery.
It is important to note that the amount of mobility you may lose with spinal fusion can vary depending on several factors, including the number of vertebrae involved in the fusion and the specific technique used by the surgeon. In most cases, spinal fusion only involves two adjacent vertebrae, so the loss of flexibility is generally minimal.
After a spinal fusion surgery, the fused segment of the spine becomes less flexible and movement is restricted at that particular location. However, the overall range of motion of your spine should not be significantly impacted. The remaining segments of your spine, which are not fused, continue to maintain their normal range of motion. This allows you to still bend, twist, and move your spine to a considerable extent.
It is worth mentioning that the loss of mobility after spinal fusion is usually not a major concern for most people. Many individuals who undergo spinal fusion surgery are already experiencing limited mobility or pain due to their spinal condition. The primary goal of the surgery is to alleviate pain and stabilize the spine, rather than to preserve full mobility.
Recovery from spinal fusion surgery typically involves a period of restricted activity and physical therapy. During this time, it is important to follow your surgeon’s recommendations and gradually increase your activity level. This will help to strengthen the muscles around your spine and improve your overall mobility.
It is also worth noting that while spinal fusion restricts movement at the fused segment, it can actually provide stability and relieve pain in the long term. Many individuals who have undergone successful spinal fusion surgery report a significant reduction in pain and an improved quality of life.
In my personal experience, I have known individuals who have undergone spinal fusion surgery and have been able to resume their normal activities and even participate in physical activities such as walking, swimming, and yoga. While there may be some limitations in terms of bending or twisting at the fused segment, these individuals have been able to lead active and fulfilling lives post-surgery.
While spinal fusion surgery may result in some loss of mobility at the fused segment of the spine, the overall impact on your range of motion is typically minimal. It is important to follow your surgeon’s recommendations for recovery and rehabilitation in order to optimize your mobility and achieve the best possible outcome after spinal fusion surgery.