USEFUL NUMBERS
Spinal CNS - 0207 580 4400 ext:18049AFTER SCOLIOSIS AIS SURGERY – THE DO’S AND DON’TS FOR THE FIRST SIX MONTHS
PAIN
You will feel some degree of pain for about 1-year post surgery, obviously this will reduce as time goes by. If your child cannot verbalise when they are in pain, please be aware of the likelihood of any pain. They may just require a rest or some analgesia or both.
SCHOOL
4-6 weeks off school is the average length of time before you are ready to return. It is a good idea to return on a part-time basis for the first two weeks.
At school you will also need help with carrying your books and bags, arrangements will need to be made for this and if a letter is required please ask the Orthopaedic Clinical Nurse Specialist.
BATHING
When your operation site is clean and dry, about 14 days after surgery, you can have a shower. A shower is preferable because it puts less strain on the spine than getting in and out of a bath. Do not let the operation site soak until it has healed completely.
The safest way of having a shower is to get into a dry bath (c/o bath mat) remove the brace (if wearing a brace) and place this on a chair by the bath. Bath boards are often useful. After showering and drying, put the brace back on and then get out of the bath. You will need a hand at first as you will feel very weak post your spinal surgery.
LIFTING
You SHOULD NOT lift more than 2 pounds of sugar in weight.
PULLING
You should avoid any pulling activities such as when walking the dog etc.
EXERCISE
Until your surgeon says otherwise the only activity we would like you to partake in is walking. You can discuss further activity at each follow up appointment but generally no physical activity or contact sports for 1 year after surgery (this includes amusement park rides).
Walking around 4 or 5 times a day for about 5 to 10 minutes, ensuring you are comfortable to do so, including visits to the toilet, etc.
We strongly encourage normal activity, including using stairs. Sitting tolerance should be increased gradually to prepare you for going back to school and travelling.
You should continue to do the exercises taught by the physiotherapist.
If you are a wheelchair user before the operation, the physiotherapists and occupational therapists will discuss and plan mobilization and time spent sitting.
By 3 months you should be back at school for full days. No PE at this stage. Increased exercise through walking longer distances will improve your overall stamina.
SWIMMING
After 6 months, swimming is the best form of exercise to strengthen the back muscles or until advised by the consultant. (If you cannot swim, walking is a good substitute)
REST
This is essential at the beginning to increase your stamina. Regular periods of rest on your bed or sofa should be encouraged. This can then be gradually reduced as you get less exhausted doing day to day activities.
SITTING POSTURE
Ensure you are sitting back in a chair with your buttocks and thighs. Your spine needs to be straight. Keep thighs parallel to the ground, and feet should be shoulder width apart and planted firmly on the floor. Do not sit for long periods and try to move every 30 minutes.
AVOID
You should try to avoid low soft sofas, chairs without arms, chairs that are too low or too high, bucket chairs and deep chairs, as these items will give no support to your back.
BEDS AND SLEEPING
Your mattress should not be too hard or too soft. It needs to support your weight without sagging or giving way at the hips and shoulders.
Duvets are easier than sheets and blankets, and fitted sheets are recommended. It is also best to have supportive pillows or a neck pillow. Note: When getting into bed, the “logrolling” technique is the best method of transfer:
*Reverse to get out of bed.
SLEEPING POSITIONS
Avoid:
Try:
USEFUL NUMBERS REMINDER
Spinal CNS – 0207 580 4400 ext:18049
Mob: 07936363235
Monday to Friday from 8am to 4pm
Out of hours: 0207 580 4400 please ask for PSP (Paediatric Site Practitioner) ext:10843
