If you or someone you know is advised to undergo a laminectomy for back or neck pain or weakness and tingling in your arms or legs, you may have some questions on recovery time following the procedure.
We are here to help you get a clearer understanding of what this spinal procedure is and how long it takes for you to fully recover from a laminectomy and live a healthier, more comfortable life.
What is a laminectomy?
A laminectomy is a type of spinal decompression surgery that involves the surgical removal of a small bone, called the lamina, from a vertebra. This arch-shaped piece of your vertebrae,normally covers and protects the spinal cord and nerves, but if it’s pressing on them due to certain spinal conditions, it can cause pain and discomfort.
Removing this portion of bone relieves pressure on the spinal cord or nerves that are causing pain, numbness or tingling symptoms. Laminectomies are common in patients with spinal stenosis, tumors, bone spurs, herniated discs and infections.
How long does a laminectomy take?
Typically, this spinal surgery takes between one to three hours, depending on how many vertebrae are involved and whether additional procedures, like a spinal fusion, are needed.
What is the recovery time for a laminectomy?
Your laminectomy recovery time depends on several factors, including your age, general health, the location and severity of the damaged spinal vertebra, and the surgical approach your expert neurosurgeon decides is best for you.
Factors that influence recovery time:
- Age: Younger patients typically heal faster than older adults, regardless of the surgical approach.
- Overall health: Patients with preexisting health conditions may heal slower than those who are in good physical condition.
- Extent of surgery: Depending on the location of the damaged discs and the extent of the damage, a laminectomy may involve multiple levels of the spine. This increases recovery time as more extensive measures must be taken.
General Recovery Timeline:
- Minimally invasive approach: Most patients can expect a four-to-six-week recovery time.
- More extensive surgery, such as a laminectomy with a spinal fusion: Full recovery may take as long as up to six months , especially if spinal hardware is used to stabilize the spine.
During this recovery period, you will need lots of rest. However, physical therapy is generally introduced gradually to help restore strength, mobility, and flexibility, as recommended by your care team.
What can you expect after surgery?
Pain and stiffness are common in the first days following your laminectomy. Your provider will likely prescribe pain medications, muscle relaxants and sometimes anti-inflammatory medications to help you stay comfortable.
You’ll also receive post-surgical instructions on how to care for your incision and move safely and which activities you should avoid.
Most patients are encouraged to walk short distances within the first 24 hours after spinal decompression surgery, like laminectomies. Prolonged bed rest can delay healing and increase the risk of complications.
Are there any restrictions following a laminectomy?
As with any spine surgery, extra caution should be taken following the procedure. During the initial recovery period, follow the post-surgical guidelines provided by your care team. These typically include:
- No bending, twisting and lifting heavy objects.
- Avoid sitting or standing for too long.
- Gradually increase activity with guidance from your physical therapist and care team.
Returning to work depends on the type of job you have. If your work is physically demanding, you may need to be out longer than someone with a desk job.
A Team You Can Trust
With any type of surgery, but especially with spine surgery, you want a surgeon and team that you can trust. At Northeast Georgia Physicians Group, our expert neurosurgeons treat the full spectrum of neurologic diagnoses, including laminectomies. To schedule an appointment, visit ngpg.org/spine.