Spinal Cord Stimulator Aftercare Instructions
A day-by-day recovery guide for spinal cord stimulator: what to expect, how to care for yourself, and when to call. Free to read and print.
What to expect
Spine Precautions (BLT)
- •No Bending at the waist
- •No Lifting over 5-10 lbs
- •No Twisting the spine
- •These restrictions protect your surgical repair and allow fusion to occur
Spinal Cord Stimulator recovery, day by day
Critical Monitoring
- Hospital stay may vary based on procedure
- Log-roll technique for turning in bed; do not twist the spine
- Report any new headache, vision changes, weakness, or numbness IMMEDIATELY
- Take anti-seizure medication if prescribed (do NOT skip doses)
Pain & Medication
- Pain medication will be managed by your care team
- Use the bed controls, not your core muscles, to adjust position
- Stool softeners to prevent straining (critical for brain and spine surgery)
- Deep breathing exercises to prevent pneumonia
Activity & Movement
- Begin walking as instructed; no bending, lifting, or twisting (BLT restrictions)
- No driving for at least 2-4 weeks (varies by procedure)
- No lifting over 5-10 lbs for 4-6 weeks
- Wear any prescribed brace or support
Incision Care
- Keep incision clean and dry
- Shower as directed (usually OK after 48 hours with waterproof dressing)
- Do NOT apply lotions, ointments, or creams to the incision unless directed
- Watch for signs of CSF leak: clear, watery drainage from incision or nose
Ongoing Recovery
- Gradually increase activity as cleared by your neurosurgeon
- Physical therapy is critical; attend all sessions
- Attend all follow-up appointments and imaging
- Bone fusion takes 3-6 months; protect your spine during this time
When to call your provider or 911
- •Fever above 101.5°F (38.6°C) that doesn't respond to medication
- •Uncontrolled bleeding that doesn't stop with pressure
- •Severe pain not managed by prescribed medication
- •Signs of allergic reaction: hives, swelling of face/throat, difficulty breathing
- •Chest pain, shortness of breath, or rapid heartbeat
- •Redness, warmth, or pus at the incision site (signs of infection)
- •Sudden increase in swelling or pain after initial improvement
- •Numbness or tingling that worsens
- •Loss of bowel or bladder control (medical emergency)
- •Progressive weakness or numbness in arms or legs
- •New vision changes or double vision
- •Severe neck stiffness with fever
When in doubt, call your clinic. For a medical emergency, call 911.
Recovery milestones
- Day 3
Neurological stability
Neuro checks stable, initial recovery progressing
- Day 10
Staple/suture removal
Return for wound closure removal
- Day 9
Begin physical therapy
Start PT program for strength and mobility
- Day 30
Expected recovery
Bone fusion maturing, resume normal activities as cleared
For clinics
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