Can You Go to a Chiropractor After Laminectomy?

Laminectomy and cervical fusion surgeries are common procedures performed to relieve pressure on the spinal cord or nerves, often due to conditions like herniated discs, spinal stenosis, or injury. 

While these surgeries can help alleviate pain and improve mobility, the recovery process can still present challenges such as stiffness, discomfort, and restricted range of motion.

A key question many patients ask is, “Can I go to a chiropractor after laminectomy or cervical fusion?”

In this post, we’ll explore the role of chiropractic care in post-surgical recovery, when it might be appropriate to seek care, and what you can expect during treatment.

The Healing Process After Laminectomy and Cervical Fusion

The healing timeline after laminectomy or cervical fusion varies depending on the complexity of the surgery and individual factors, but typically, full recovery can take anywhere from a few months to a year. 

Early stages of recovery often involve pain management, restricted movement, and physical therapy to regain strength and flexibility.

Common symptoms after surgery include:

• Pain and stiffness around the surgical site
• Limited range of motion in the neck or back
• Weakness or discomfort in the arms or legs

It’s critical to follow your surgeon’s post-operative instructions closely and attend all follow-up appointments. This ensures proper healing and helps prevent complications. 

But what happens after this initial phase? How can chiropractic care support your ongoing recovery?

How Chiropractic Care Aids in Post-Surgical Recovery

Chiropractic care can play a supportive role in the post-surgical recovery process by addressing residual pain and stiffness while promoting proper alignment and function of the spine. 

After surgery, it’s common for other areas of the spine or musculoskeletal system to compensate for the surgical site, potentially leading to misalignments or increased stress on muscles and joints.

Some potential benefits of chiropractic care after surgery include:

• Reducing pain: Gentle chiropractic techniques can help relieve residual discomfort and prevent compensatory pain in surrounding areas.
• Improving range of motion: Chiropractic adjustments, soft tissue therapy, and mobilization techniques can help restore flexibility and ease tension in muscles and joints.
• Supporting proper alignment: Ensuring that the spine and joints remain aligned can aid long-term recovery and help prevent future issues.

However, it’s important to note that post-surgical chiropractic care requires clear communication between your chiropractor and surgeon to ensure safety and coordinate your treatment plan effectively. 

Chiropractic BioPhysics (CBP), for example, is a specialized technique that focuses on spinal alignment and may be particularly beneficial for patients recovering from spinal surgeries.

When to Seek Chiropractic Care After Surgery

When is it appropriate to start chiropractic care after a laminectomy or cervical fusion? The timing largely depends on factors such as:

• The type of surgery performed
• Your individual healing progress
• Your surgeon’s recommendations

Most surgeons will advise waiting until the bones have fully healed and the fusion is complete before considering chiropractic treatment. For some, this might be as early as three months post-surgery, while others may need to wait longer. 

Always obtain clearance from your surgeon before beginning chiropractic treatment to ensure your body is ready for this type of care.

What to Expect During Chiropractic Treatment After Surgery

Chiropractors adapt their techniques to accommodate post-surgical patients, using gentle, non-invasive methods that prioritize safety and comfort. Here’s what you can typically expect during post-surgical chiropractic care:

• Soft tissue therapy: Massage or instrument-assisted techniques to reduce tension and improve circulation in the muscles surrounding the surgical site.
• Light mobilization: Gentle movements that promote joint flexibility and ease stiffness without putting strain on the surgical area.
• Patient comfort and safety: Chiropractors will carefully monitor your progress and adjust treatment according to your needs, ensuring that each session aligns with your recovery stage.

Conclusion

Chiropractic care can complement the healing process after laminectomy or cervical fusion surgeries by addressing pain, stiffness, and alignment issues that may persist post-surgery. 

However, working closely with your surgeon and chiropractor is vital to ensure a coordinated approach that prioritizes your safety and long-term recovery.

If you’re considering chiropractic care after surgery, contact Crist Chiropractic to discuss your unique needs and develop a personalized care plan. 

Our approach prioritizes safe, gentle techniques tailored to post-surgical recovery, helping you alleviate pain, improve mobility, and enhance overall spinal health. 

Experience the benefits of compassionate, patient-centered care designed to support your healing journey—schedule your consultation today!

FAQs

1. Can you get a massage after a laminectomy?

Yes, massage therapy can often be beneficial after a laminectomy, but it’s essential to wait until your surgeon gives you clearance. Soft tissue massage can help relieve muscle tension and improve circulation, but care must be taken to avoid putting pressure directly on the surgical site.

2. Who should not get a chiropractic adjustment?

People with certain conditions, such as severe osteoporosis, cancer in the spine, or spinal instability, may not be candidates for traditional chiropractic adjustments. Always consult with your healthcare provider and chiropractor before beginning any treatment, especially post-surgery.

3. Can you go to the chiropractor with a pulled-back muscle?

Yes, chiropractic care can help alleviate pain and tension from a pulled-back muscle through gentle adjustments, soft tissue therapy, and mobilization techniques. A chiropractor can help promote healing and reduce muscle strain.

4. Can a chiropractor put your spine back in place?

Chiropractors specialize in improving spinal alignment through adjustments that help realign the vertebrae. However, it’s essential to understand that chiropractic care is more about improving joint function and reducing nerve interference than “putting the spine back in place.”

5. Is it true that once you go to a chiropractor, you have to keep going back?

No, while many people find regular chiropractic care beneficial for maintaining overall spinal health, you are not required to continue treatment indefinitely. The frequency of visits depends on your specific condition, goals, and progress.