-
Home or extended care facility after
four to six days post op.
-
Keep incision clean and dry for seven
(7) days.
-
You can shower by placing Saran Wrap
over the incision and taping the edges, starting with the second post
op day. On the seventh day, it is okay to shower without covering the
incision.
-
If a brace has been prescribed you must
wear the brace at all times (24 hrs. a day) except for showering,
unless otherwise advised by Dr. LaGrone. **NOTE
- Wearing an undershirt underneath the brace will be more comfortable.
-
You may shower out of the brace but
remember not to bend or twist during this time.
-
Walk daily, gradually increasing time
and distance with a goal of walking two to three miles per day by
three weeks post op. Example:
First day - Walk within the house.
Second day - Walk a half a block.
Third day - Walk three-quarters to one block. Each day increase the
distance and time.
**NOTE - This is an optimal achieved goal.
Listen to your body for signs of overdoing it, i.e., increased pain,
numbness, or weakness. If the above examples occur, cut your distance
and time in half and gradually increase. If symptoms continue or
increase, call the office.
-
Avoid heavy lifting, bending, twisting,
or stooping until cleared by Dr. LaGrone.
-
For the first 2 weeks after surgery,
try to limit sitting to meals and restroom use only. The rest of the
time should be spent reclining, Iying down, or walking.
-
It is okay to drive after three (3)
weeks, unless otherwise directed.
-
Call Dr. LaGrone's office at (806)
354-2529 if the following occur: increased redness, swelling, or
drainage from the incision; fever over 101 degrees Fahrenheit; or
increasing lower extremity pain, weakness, or numbness.
-
Follow up in the office three to four
weeks post op. This appointment should be made by the hospital staff
during the weekdays. However, if you are discharged on the weekend you
must make the appointment on the following Monday.
