Nonstop back pain can significantly interfere with your daily life. Your doctor may recommend back surgery if conservative (noninvasive) measures do not ease your symptoms.
You may have lots of preconceived notions about back surgery, but rest assured that the procedure is much safer and less invasive than ever before. With proper preparation and your back surgeon’s expertise, you can anticipate relief from your back pain.
Let’s talk about how you can get ready for back surgery, and where you can go in Rochester Hills, the Thumb region, and throughout southeast Michigan and Metro Detroit for outstanding spine care.
Tips Before Your Back Surgery
Call Your Insurance Company
It is imperative to contact your health insurance company and notify them of your upcoming back surgery, and to verify your exact coverage and any requirements. Do not hesitate to ask to speak to a manager if the customer service person on the phone doesn’t know the full answers to all of your questions, because you do not want to receive an unexpected medical bill after the operation due to inadequate communication on their part.
Have Your Medical History Ready to Share with the Medical Team
Your surgeon will review your medical history and conduct a pre-operative exam before your back surgery. They will need this information to help ensure a safe procedure.
They may also ask questions such as:
- Do you have any pre-existing health conditions?
- Are you taking any medications, whether over-the-counter and/or prescription?
- Do you have any allergies?
- (If you’re female:) Is there a chance you may be pregnant?
Ask a Trusted Person to Drive You To and From the Surgery
You will not be allowed to drive yourself home if you have a surgical procedure. Arrange for a responsible adult to drive you both to and from the procedure, whether it is outpatient or if you have to stay in the hospital overnight.
Most hospitals and clinics today require that you notify them of the name of your designated driver and what your relationship is to them. This is for your own safety as well as for legal reasons.
Tips for the Day of Your Back Surgery
Follow Your Surgeon’s Instructions
On the day of your back surgery, be sure to follow your surgeon’s instructions for preparation, which may include:
- Directions on food and water intake (usually, no food or drink after midnight before surgery)
- Taking or stopping medications
- Wearing no makeup, contact lenses, nail polish, or accessories
- Leaving valuables at home, including wedding rings, earrings, and watches
Wear Comfortable Clothes
You will have to easily get out of your clothes to change into a hospital gown, and you will need to put those clothes back on after your back surgery. Therefore, be sure to wear a shirt or top with snaps or buttons, not an over-the-head shirt. It is also best to wear pull-on pants, such as sweatpants.
Take Note of the Items You Need to Bring
Ensure that you have all of the items you will need, including:
- Insurance and ID cards
- Cash, credit, or debit cards, if needed
- A list of any allergies you have, such as to latex or eggs
If you are going to stay in the hospital after your surgery, you may also need the following items:
- Personal care items, such as your toothbrush and hairbrush
- Prescription medications
- (If you’re a menstruating female:) Pads, etc.
Back Pain Relief in Rochester Hills, Bad Axe, and Lapeer, Michigan
Here at Ahlgren Spine, you’re in good hands under the care of Dr. Bradley Ahlgren and our dedicated medical team. If you need professional and lasting back pain relief in Rochester Hills, Bad Axe, and Lapeer, we will be with you at every step and beyond.
Ready to say goodbye to back pain? Call us today at (248) 215-8080 or fill out our simple appointment request form online now. We look forward to serving you!
