How to Recover From Back Surgery
By Chad Buleen
Although back surgery can certainly take you off of the golf course for a while, it does not necessarily mean the end of your golf-playing days. However, it is important that you follow some basic recovery recommendations if you want to recover efficiently and get back on the course again to play without pain.
Instructions
Difficulty: Moderate
Change positions frequently. Avoid sitting or standing in one place for long periods of time. Staying in one place increases the likelihood of muscle cramps and spasms occurring.
Rest well, but do not spend all day in bed. It is best to take short naps during the day. When sleeping, rest on your side, bend your knees and place a pillow between them. When you wake, you may have a stiff back. A warm shower can decrease this pain.
Wash the incision area and pat it dry. Do not rub. Keep the incision covered if stitches have not yet been removed. If you see signs of infection--such as swelling, drainage or redness--contact your doctor immediately.
Follow a low-impact exercise routine. Walking is a great low-impact exercise. You also can take your putter and practice your short game on a putting green. Avoid swinging a golf club until you have been cleared to do so by your doctor. Exercise daily. This will allow you to rebuild strength in your back and keep your weight under control. Too much weight can put undo strain on your back.
Follow a balanced diet that is rich in fruits and vegetables. Because the recovery period will likely see you being less active, you should avoid foods that are heavy and fattening and that will cause weight gain and--in turn--more stress on your back.
See your doctor for each scheduled post-operation visit. As you progress, your doctor will let you know when you are able to resume activities such as playing golf.
Tips & Warnings
You can take a quick stroll to relieve stiffness in your back after you wake up.
About The Author
Chad Buleen is a Society of Professional Journalists-award winning newspaper and magazine writer and editor with more than 10 years' experience. He has been published in "Utah Spirit," "Charleston Gazette," "Idaho Falls Post Register" and numerous other publications. Buleen holds a Bachelor of Arts in communications with an emphasis in print journalism from Brigham Young University-Idaho.
