How long does a laminectomy take to heal?

How long does a laminectomy take to heal?

After a minor (decompressive) laminectomy, you are usually able to return to light activity (desk work and light housekeeping) within a few days to a few weeks. If you also had spinal fusion with your laminectomy, your recovery time will likely be longer — from two to four months.

Can you run after a laminectomy?

Within about a month, you can start running for short distances following decompression surgery for degenerative bone disorders. You’ll probably feel much better as soon as your stiches heal. By the time your back surgery recovery period ends, you’ll be eager to get running again.

How long after a laminectomy can I lift weights?

Following decompression surgery, you should refrain from heavy lifting for six weeks. You can start back to cardiovascular conditioning at three to four weeks, and can start physical therapy about one month after surgery. With good progress in physical therapy, a return to sports can be expected at three to six months.

When can you lift after laminectomy?

You may return to work anywhere from 1-6 weeks after surgery. If you normally lift up to 50 pounds, lift objects throughout the day and have to carry up to 20 pounds, your job or activity level is medium. You may return to work anywhere from 4-8 weeks after surgery.

Can I ride a bike after a laminectomy?

Both road biking and mountain biking are acceptable activities. Road biking, of course, is an excellent exercise and low back patients may start a month after their operation.

Is a laminectomy painful?

In some cases, despite performing a laminectomy, patients experience pain because the spinal column itself is narrowed in a condition called spinal stenosis. Sometimes, there may be a small fragment of the disc still remaining following the laminectomy which can irritate the spinal-cord causing pain.

Can you lift weights after laminectomy?

Following decompression surgery, you should refrain from heavy lifting for six weeks. You can start back to cardiovascular conditioning at three to four weeks, and can start physical therapy about one month after surgery.

Is bike riding good exercise after back surgery?

Road biking, of course, is an excellent exercise and low back patients may start a month after their operation. Fusion patients should wait at least eight weeks before starting to ride.