Spinal Decompression Aftercare Instructions
A day-by-day recovery guide for spinal decompression: what to expect, how to care for yourself, and when to call. Free to read and print.
What to expect
Blood Clot Prevention
- •Move frequently, even if just ankle pumps
- •Stay hydrated
- •Take blood thinners if prescribed
- •Report any calf pain, swelling, or shortness of breath immediately
Spinal Decompression recovery, day by day
Pain & Medication
- Take prescribed pain medication before anesthesia fully wears off
- Elevate the affected area above heart level
- Apply ice: 20 min on, 20 min off
Mobility
- Immobilize the area as instructed
- No weight bearing unless cleared by your surgeon
- Ankle pumps and gentle toe wiggles to prevent blood clots
Wound Care
- Keep surgical dressing clean and dry
- Do NOT remove bandages unless instructed
- Watch for signs of infection: increasing redness, warmth, drainage
Movement
- Short walks every 1-2 hours to prevent blood clots
- Perform prescribed exercises as directed
- Keep the area elevated when resting
Recovery Progress
- Bruising and swelling should begin to improve
- Gradually increase activity as tolerated
- Transition to over-the-counter pain medication as directed
Physical Therapy
- Begin gentle range of motion exercises as directed
- Consistency with exercises is critical for recovery
- Do not push through sharp pain
Continued Recovery
- Attend all follow-up appointments
- Continue physical therapy exercises
- Gradually increase weight-bearing as cleared by your surgeon
- Full recovery timeline varies; follow your surgeon's guidance
When to call your provider or 911
- •Call 911 now for trouble breathing, chest pain, fainting, or swelling of the face or throat
- •Call your clinic promptly for fever or chills, bleeding that does not stop with firm pressure, or pain not controlled by your clinician-approved plan
- •Call your clinic for hives or another possible allergic reaction that is not affecting breathing or causing facial or throat swelling
- •Call your care team today if you notice: Redness, warmth, or pus at the incision site, signs of infection
- •Call your care team today if you notice: Sudden increase in swelling or pain after initial improvement
- •Call your care team today if you notice: Numbness or tingling that worsens
- •Call your care team today if you notice: Calf pain, swelling, or warmth, possible blood clot
- •Call 911 now if you notice: Sudden shortness of breath or chest pain
- •Call your care team today if you notice: Joint feels unstable or gives way
When in doubt, call your clinic. For a medical emergency, call 911.
Recovery milestones
- Day 3
Swelling Peaks Then Improves
Bruising and swelling start resolving
- Day 7
Begin Physical Therapy
Start prescribed PT exercises
- Day 45
Recovery Progress Check
Notice what is improving, unchanged, or worsening. Contact the care team if symptoms are getting worse or the next step is unclear.
- Day 90
Ongoing Recovery Review
Review any remaining symptoms or restrictions with the care team before changing your routine.
For clinics
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