An IV may remain in your arm for two to three days to administer antibiotics or other medications you may need. This helps prevent infection and gives you proper nourishment until you are eating and drinking comfortably. You will begin regular fluid and food intake under the direction and advice of your surgeon. After the acute pain has diminished, usually the day after surgery, a physical therapist will help you begin standing and walking again. They will also show you the proper way to get in and out of bed, sit and stand, and sleep position.
Most patients can return home one to four days following surgery.
Physical Therapy Your back rehabilitation program will begin ten days after surgery and will be monitored by a physical therapist. Stretching and exercises will be demonstrated that need to be done each day. It is normal for you to have some discomfort. This device delivers pain medicine into your IV when you want it. Your surgeon orders the pump set so that you only receive the appropriate amount of medicine needed.