Lumbar fusion recovery happens gradually, with most patients beginning to walk within a day of surgery and returning to normal activities over the following weeks and months. This guide explains what to expect at each stage, including pain management, activity restrictions, physical therapy, and warning signs that may require a call to your surgeon.
Lumbar spondylolisthesis occurs when a vertebra in the lower back slips forward over the bone beneath it, potentially causing nerve compression and pain. Learn about the different types, causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options, including physical therapy, medication, injections, and surgery.
If you’ve been living with chronic neck or back pain, seeing a spine surgeon can feel intimidating. Many people worry that scheduling an appointment means surgery is inevitable. During a recent appearance on the Neurosurgery Podcast, Dr. Kaiser discussed the philosophy that has guided his career for more than two decades: surgery should only be recommended when it’s truly necessary. Instead, every patient deserves the time, education, and honest guidance needed to make the right decision for their health. Here’s what patients can learn from Dr. Kaiser’s approach to spine care.
After years of living with chronic lower back pain caused by spinal stenosis and bulging discs, Erin found lasting relief through lumbar fusion surgery performed by Dr. Anthony Conte. Watch how exhausting conservative treatments ultimately led her to the surgeon who helped her get her life back.
For decades, Juan lived with essential tremor symptoms that affected nearly every part of his life. When medication no longer controlled the shaking, he turned to deep brain stimulation (DBS) at Neurosurgeons of New Jersey. Watch how Dr. Gigante helped Juan regain steadier hands, renewed confidence, and the freedom to enjoy life’s simple moments again.
Hela never expected occasional vertigo to lead to the discovery of three brain tumors: two acoustic neuromas and one meningioma. After being diagnosed with neurofibromatosis type 2 (NF2), she searched for a surgeon with the experience to treat her complex condition while protecting her quality of life. Watch how Dr. Liu helped her return to the active life she loves.
Lumbar degenerative disc disease is a common age-related condition that affects the discs in the lower back. While it can cause persistent back pain, stiffness, or nerve-related symptoms, many patients find relief with conservative treatments such as physical therapy and activity modification. Learn what causes lumbar DDD, how it is diagnosed, and when surgery may be considered for lasting symptom relief.
Exercise plays an important role in healing after lumbar fusion surgery, but timing and technique matter. Learn which exercises are safe during each stage of recovery, when to begin physical therapy, which movements to avoid, and how walking, gentle stretching, and strengthening exercises can help support a successful spinal fusion recovery.
A bulging disc in the lumbar spine is a common MRI finding that may or may not cause symptoms. When a bulging disc compresses nearby nerves, it can lead to lower back pain, sciatica, numbness, tingling, or muscle weakness. Learn what a lumbar bulging disc is, how it differs from a herniated disc, which treatments are most effective, and when it’s time to see a spine specialist.
After years of chronic neck and back pain, Ilisa faced multiple spine surgeries that ultimately changed her life. In this patient success story, she shares how Dr. Estin’s thoughtful approach to spinal fusion surgery helped her regain her independence, continue her nursing career, travel to see her granddaughter, and enjoy everyday life without the limitations of chronic pain. Watch Ilisa tell her story in her own words.
