EN
es
Spinal Cord Stimulator Implant Recovery
The spinal cord stimulator implant procedure (NueroMod) is minimally invasive and has a low risk of complications. That means that healing time tends to be swift with this type of procedure compared to other surgical treatments. Yet it is still a form of surgery, and that often means that there are some tips and techniques that should be considered as you begin to adjust to life with less pain.
Recovery Time and Care
Usually, the most important part of the recovery process from a spinal cord stimulator implant surgery occurs in the first one to two weeks, but this can vary depending on the patient. During the recovery, the board certified doctors at Physician Partners of America will first provide you with a list of activities to avoid. These are actions that are best avoided for the first few weeks while you are healing from the procedure, including:
- Lifting objects heavier than five pounds.
- Athletic activities or rough-housing that could move the device before you heal.
- Sudden jerking motions, including twisting and bending.
- Extended periods of sitting and immobility that puts pressure on the spine.
- Lifting your arms above your head.
Your doctor may also ask you to take sponge baths instead of a regular bath or shower for at least the first few days after the surgery to allow the incision areas to heal. Driving may be a restricted activity in the month or so after surgery, but talk to the doctors at Physician Partners of America if you have specific travel activities that are required for your work or home life.
You can encourage the healing process by maintaining healthy habits like eating a nutritious diet, getting plenty of sleep, and taking your medications and doctor’s instructions seriously. You should also be aware of what the signs of infection may be and get medical help quickly if you notice them. If you experience any of these symptoms, especially around the incision site, you should contact your doctor:
- Pain that remains or increases for over two weeks
- Excessive redness
- Excessive drainage
- Fever or chills
Other general risk factors after surgery can include signs of allergic reactions to the implant material or unexplained pain that occurs either gradually or all at once. Everyone is different, and your doctor will also be able to tell you if you should be aware of any particular risks you should keep an eye out for.
Complete recovery from a spinal cord stimulator implant takes roughly 6 weeks to 2 months depending on health, age, and surgical placement.
Next Steps for Recovery
To best improve your chances of successful and speedy recovery from a neuromodulation implant, take an active role in your recovery by staying on track with follow-up appointments, medications, and post-surgical hygiene instructions. This will minimize your chances of developing an infection or suffering from other negative effects and improve your outcome. If you’d like to learn more about spinal cord stimulator implant recovery, contact our team of board certified doctors today for an appointment.
