Treatment & CareOrthopedicsOrthopedic SurgeryJoint Replacement and Spine CenterThe Spine CenterSpine Surgery - Preparing your Home
Preparing Your Home for Spine Surgery
- It is best to find an area in your home you will be comfortable with, close to the bathroom and kitchen.
- Prepare “home made” meals ahead of time. Frozen meals contain excessive amounts of sodium.
- Look for items that may pose a fall risk: lamp cords, throw rugs, pets, children.
- Install handrails where needed (ie; stairs and bathrooms).
Back Brace
- You may or may not have a back brace after a spinal fusion based on the type of surgery you had and your surgeon’s preference.
- If a brace is ordered, you must wear ONLY when out of bed (standing, walking, sitting).
Potential Equipment Needs
- Sock Aide - Provided by MMC
- Dressing Stick – Provided by MMC
- Reacher – Sold at drug stores – approx. $11.00
- Extended Shoe Horn – Purchase approx. $10.00
- Elastic Shoe Laces - Purchase approx. $5.00
- Rolling Walker – Insurance covered, or local first aid dept, or can use pre owned
- Raised Toilet Seat/Shower Chair – Some insurance covers, or local first aide dept., or can use preowned
If using equipment from previous surgery or a loved one, please have it checked by a therapist prior to use.
Stair Climbing & Descending
The ability to go up and down stairs requires both flexibility and strength. At first, you will need a handrail for support and you will only be able to go one step at a time. Always lead up the stairs with your unoperative leg and down the stairs with your operated leg. Remember "up with the good" and "down with the bad." You may want to have someone help you until you have regained most of your strength and mobility. Do not try to climb steps higher than those of the standard height of seven inches and always use the handrail for balance.
