Vim & Vigor - Summer 2014 - North Mississippi - (Page 6)

course an option when needed, but we want patients to know that we are going to work with them to be sure they get what they need. We know chronic pain can keep you from doing the things you love, and our goal is to help you recover as quickly as possible." Forsman's role is to assist and guide patients throughout their experience with the Spine Center, as well as teach the presurgical class. The neurosurgeons and staff at NMMC: * Have performed minimally invasive neurosurgical procedures, including spine procedures, since 1997. * Perform hundreds of spine procedures every year. * Use a multidisciplinary team of physical therapists, physicians, surgeons, nurses and technicians. * Ensure team members are specially trained to care for patients with neck and spine conditions, including those who need spine surgery. * Provide extensive education for the patient, their family and friends, so they can participate in the recovery process. For more information on the NMMC Spine Center, call 662-377-BACK (2225) or 800-THE DESK (800-843-3375). Visit us online at www.nmhs.net/ spine_center.php. Your Questions, Answered Below, we offer up answers to some common questions about spine surgery. For more, visit www.nmhs.net/ spine_faqs.php Q: When can I walk after surgery? A: The Spine Center staff will have you up and walking within an hour after surgery. Q: Will I be hospitalized? A: This depends on the type of surgery you have. The usual stay for spine procedures is one to three days. Many factors can affect the length of time you stay, such as the type of problems you have, your general health and the type of surgery you need. If complications arise, your stay may be extended. Some spine procedures are considered outpatient procedures, and you may be discharged home the same day as the procedure. Q: How long will it take me to recuperate? A: Approximately two months. Recovery requires two to four weeks at home and at least six weeks without any strenuous activity. Q: How long will the surgery last? A: Depending on the type of procedure you are having, the length of time normally ranges from two to four hours. These times vary, and a surgery time may be much shorter or longer. Q: When will I start to see improvement in my pain? A: Most patients experience almost immediate improvement in the degree of pain postoperatively. Sometimes, during the first two months after surgery, you may have episodes of pain similar to the pain you felt before surgery because of inflammation around the nerve. As the tissue heals, this residual pain will pass. 6 SU M M E R 2 014 Q: When can I drive? A: Usually in two to four weeks or when released by your surgeon. Make sure you can get in and out of your car comfortably. Do not drive if you are taking any type of pain medication other than over-the-counter medicines. Q: When can I return to work? A: Healing times vary from person to person. It also depends on the type of surgery you had and the type of work you do. Your surgeon will discuss a plan for safe return to work. Q: What will my limitations be after surgery? A: Limitations vary. You will be given written instructions to take home. Generally, you should not lift anything that weighs more than 5 pounds (a little less than a gallon of milk). Avoid twisting or bending. No push or pull movements such as vacuuming. Do not sit for more than 30 minutes at a time if you have low back surgery, unless your surgeon tells you otherwise. http://www.nmhs.net/spine_center.php http://www.nmhs.net/spine_faqs.php

Table of Contents for the Digital Edition of Vim & Vigor - Summer 2014 - North Mississippi

Vim & Vigor - Summer 2014 - North Mississippi
Contents
From the CEO
Back in Action
Top Honors
Stress SOS
The Truth About Sunscreen
The Transformers
Get Your Head in the Game
The Journey Continues
On the Cover
The Foot Follies
Friendly Fat
Virtual Health
The Eyes Have It
Worth the Weight
Small Wonders
Catch the Spirit

Vim & Vigor - Summer 2014 - North Mississippi