"When can I go back to work?" is the first question patients ask.

Recovery depends heavily on the type of surgery: Decompression (freeing a nerve) vs. Fusion (welding bones together).

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1. Microdiscectomy (Decompression)

Removing a small disc fragment.

• Hospital Stay: Day care or 1 night.
• Week 1: Walking around the house. No sitting for >30 mins.
• Week 2-4: Light desk work (from home). Driving allowed.
• Week 6: Full return to normal life (gym, sports).

2. Spinal Fusion (TLIF/PLIF)

Joining vertebrae with screws. Bone takes months to heal.

• Hospital Stay: 3-4 days.
• Week 1-4: Strict "BLT" restrictions (see below). Walking is encouraged.
• Month 3: X-ray check. If bone is healing, restrictions lift.
• Month 6-12: Full fusion solidifies.

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The Golden Rule: No "BLT"

For the first 6 weeks after any spine surgery, avoid:

• Bending: Don't bend at the waist to pick things up. Use your knees.
• Lifting: Nothing heavier than a milk jug (3-4 kg).
• Twisting: Keep your shoulders and hips aligned. Log roll out of bed.

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Takeaway

Spine surgery recovery is a commitment.

Respect the healing biology, follow the BLT rules, and you will protect your spine for the long haul.