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Back surgery recovery involves unexpected challenges that doctors rarely explain beforehand, from extreme boredom to the misconception that you'll immediately wake up pain-free. I share personal insights and practical tips to better prepare mentally and physically for the recovery journey following microdiscectomy.
• Prepare for boredom during recovery by planning brain-stimulating activities beyond passive TV watching
• Understand that waking up with pain doesn't mean your surgery failed—nerves can remain angry and inflamed for months
• Expect pain to potentially return at 2 weeks (due to inflammation) and 6-8 weeks (when movement restrictions ease)
• Recovery follows a non-linear pattern with many ups and downs—not a steady improvement curve
• "No bending, lifting or twisting" doesn't mean becoming completely stiff—small movements are actually beneficial
• Consider practical bathroom solutions like toilet seat risers and bidets for easier post-surgery hygiene
• Prepare for significant mental and emotional challenges, including anxiety about reherniation
• Explore resources like "New Possibilities" book and Bed Back and Beyond YouTube channel for guidance and inspiration
For more preparation tips, check out my "How to Prepare for Your Microdiscectomy" video with a room-by-room walkthrough on my YouTube channel, Bed Back and Beyond.
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