Spine surgery is a major step toward relieving pain and restoring movement — but understanding the recovery process is just as important as the surgery itself. At London Spine Health, we believe in preparing our patients for every stage of their recovery journey, helping you heal properly, safely, and confidently.
Here’s a week-by-week breakdown of what to expect after spine surgery, whether you’ve undergone a discectomy, decompression, fusion, or a robotic-assisted procedure.
Week 1: Hospital Recovery & Immediate Aftercare
Most patients stay in hospital for 1–3 days, depending on the type of surgery. During this time:
You’ll be monitored closely for pain, mobility, and signs of infection
Pain will be managed with prescribed medication
A physiotherapist may help you begin gentle walking and movement
You may be fitted with a support brace if recommended by your surgeon
You’ll be given guidance on sitting, lying down, and getting out of bed safely
By the end of this week, you should be able to walk short distances and manage basic activities with support.
Week 2–3: Rest at Home & Early Mobility
During this stage, your body is still healing. You may experience:
Mild swelling, bruising, or fatigue
Difficulty sitting or standing for extended periods
Muscle stiffness or soreness near the incision site
You’ll be advised to:
Take short, frequent walks around the house
Avoid lifting anything heavier than a kettle
Begin gentle mobility exercises if advised by your physiotherapist
Keep the surgical wound clean and dry
Pain and inflammation typically begin to reduce during this period. You should avoid driving and strenuous activity.
Week 4–6: Building Strength & Independence
This stage marks a turning point in your spine surgery recovery. Most patients:
Begin outpatient physiotherapy sessions
Can increase walking distances gradually
Resume some light daily activities such as light housework or cooking
May begin transitioning off pain medication
If you had minimally invasive or robotic spine surgery, recovery may be quicker. However, it’s still important to avoid heavy lifting, bending, or twisting.
Week 7–12: Rehabilitation & Return to Routine
At this point, you’ll begin to feel stronger, more stable, and mobile. Most patients:
Return to desk-based work or light duties
Increase strength and flexibility through physiotherapy
Gradually return to activities such as light exercise, yoga, or swimming
May be able to drive short distances, pending surgeon approval
You’ll have a follow-up appointment with your consultant at London Spine Health to assess healing progress and ensure your spine is stable and pain-free.
3 Months and Beyond: Full Recovery & Long-Term Health
By the 3-month mark, most patients feel significantly better and may resume full activity depending on the type of surgery. Key goals during this phase include:
Restoring full mobility
Improving posture and spinal alignment
Preventing recurrence through strength training and lifestyle changes
Returning to sports or physical work if cleared by your consultant
Recovery from spinal fusion or more extensive surgeries may take up to 6–12 months for complete bone healing. Your team at London Spine Health will support you throughout this process with regular assessments and rehabilitation.
Tips for a Smooth Spine Surgery Recovery
Follow your post-op instructions exactly
Avoid smoking or alcohol, which can slow healing
Use proper ergonomics when sitting or sleeping
Stay consistent with your physiotherapy exercises
Ask for help when needed — don’t push too fast
Every recovery journey is different. Age, overall health, and the type of surgery will all impact your timeline. At London Spine Health, we provide customised recovery plans to ensure you heal safely and regain full function.
Book a Consultation or Follow-Up
Thinking about spine surgery or recovering from one? Let us guide you with expert advice, follow-up care, and personalised rehabilitation.
