By John M. Abrahams, M.D.
Recovering from lumbar spine surgery is a delicate process that necessitates a balanced approach to physical activity. One of the key metrics is the number of steps taken per day.
- Monitoring step count can significantly contribute to a successful rehabilitation by promoting gradual increases in physical activity, which is crucial for restoring strength and function to the spine and surrounding muscles.
- The average adult takes 3,000 to 5,000 steps per day.
- We strongly recommend keeping track of your daily step count as you recover and even after you heal.
Post-Operative Goals
Week 1: A simple goal should be 500 to 1,000 steps per day in the first week after surgery. In older patients, this may be slightly lower.
Weeks 2 – 3: Patients should target 1,000 to 3,000 steps per day as their pain begins to subside and they are feeling better. If you are having trouble achieving this goal, please alert our care team.
Weeks 3 – 5: By this point, you should be close to the daily average for an adult or around 3,000 to 5,000 steps per day. Older patients (over 75 years) may be lower and if you have a deficit such as weakness or numbness, this may cause the numbers to be lower.
Benefits
- Gradual Increase in Activity: Post-surgery recovery programs emphasize the importance of slowly and steadily increasing physical activity. Initially, patients may be limited to walking short distances around the home. As recovery progresses, gradually increasing the number of steps taken each day can help rebuild endurance and muscle strength without overloading the healing spine. It is vital that these increases are discussed and planned with a healthcare provider to tailor activities according to individual recovery rates and surgical outcomes.
- Promotes Healing and Reduces Complications: Walking is a low-impact activity that enhances blood flow and promotes healing. Increased circulation delivers essential nutrients and oxygen to the surgical site, aiding in faster and more effective healing. Furthermore, regular walking helps prevent common post-surgical complications such as blood clots and pulmonary issues. It also helps maintain spinal flexibility and reduces the risk of muscle atrophy.
- Supports Mental Health: Recovery from lumbar spine surgery can be a challenging time, not just physically but also mentally. Walking increases the production of endorphins, which are natural mood lifters. Regular increments in daily steps can help combat feelings of depression and anxiety that might arise during the recovery period. This psychological benefit is crucial as mental health is deeply intertwined with physical health, especially in prolonged recovery phases.
- Monitoring and Motivation: Keeping track of daily steps with a pedometer or fitness tracker offers patients a tangible way to measure their progress. This monitoring can serve as a motivational tool, providing patients with immediate feedback and helping them meet their recovery goals. Setting daily or weekly goals and achieving them can significantly enhance a sense of accomplishment and encourage continued effort in the rehabilitation process.
- Establishes Long-term Health Habits: The habits formed during the recovery process can set the foundation for long-term health and mobility. Regular walking can evolve into a permanent routine, encouraging patients to lead a more active lifestyle even after full recovery. This can have lasting benefits for spinal health and overall well-being, reducing the likelihood of future back problems and improving quality of life.
It is important to note that every patient’s recovery journey is unique. The optimal number of steps will vary depending on individual factors such as the type of surgery, the patient’s overall health, and the presence of other medical conditions. Therefore, it is essential that patients work closely with their healthcare team to set appropriate step goals that align with their specific recovery needs.