Back Safety Precautions

 

Following back surgery there are three movements to avoid in order to allow your spine to heal properly. We refer to them as the “BLT” No bending, lifting, or twisting. Follow these precautions until cleared by your surgeon. 

 

 

 

 

NO BENDING

  • Do not bend forward to reach for your feet or items on the floor

  • Instead, cross one leg over the other to complete lower body dressing or use your adaptive equipment.

 

NO LIFTING

  • Do not lift anything greater than 10 pounds (for example, a gallon of milk).

 

NO TWISTING

  • Always keep your hips and shoulders in line.

  • Complete the "log roll" technique when getting in and out of bed. 

What to expect as you heal:         

Now that your surgery is complete, you should start working on standing up straight again for improved posture and to reduce pressure on your spine. It may feel awkward and/or uncomfortable at first. 

 

Use your walker until your follow-up appointment with your surgeon.  This helps to protect your spine during the initial phase of healing. 

  • Walk with your body inside the walker base, keeping your hips beside your hands