Prepare for spine surgery with confidence using this clear, step-by-step guide from MU Health Care.
This guide outlines how to prepare for spine surgery, what steps to take the day before and what to expect as you begin recovery. You’ll find practical tips and helpful reminders to support your planning, whether you’re preparing weeks in advance or reviewing your care instructions the night before surgery.
Your Pre-Surgery Checklist for Spine Surgery
Preparing for spine surgery involves more than just scheduling your procedure. At MU Health Care, you’ll have access to an entire team of specialists — including orthopaedic surgeons specializing in spine surgery, preop nurses, physical therapists, dietitians, anesthesiologists, social workers and phone room schedulers/triage nurses — who collaborate to deliver seamless care under one roof.
Take Steps to Get Healthy While Preparing for Spine Surgery
Following these steps before spine surgery can help support better healing and minimize complications.
- Stop smoking four to six weeks in advance to support your recovery and wound healing.
- Eat a balanced diet to boost fiber and protein. Your care team may include a dietitian to offer personalized guidance.
- Stay active by walking and stretching to help maintain strength and circulation.
- Practice post-op movements outlined in your pre-surgery guide, such as log rolling and other bed mobility tips.
- Attend your preop visit to review labs and coordinate necessary clearances (e.g., cardiology, pulmonology).
Get the Right Support System in Place
Recovering from spine surgery often requires help from a trusted caregiver — especially during the first few days.
- Arrange a ride home after spine surgery.
- Ask someone to help with errands, meals and dressing care.
- Include your caregiver as you learn what to expect after your spine surgery, including wound care, daily needs and mobility precautions.
If no caregiver is available, our team can assist you in finding one.
Learn What to Expect From Spine Surgery
Being informed about the procedure helps reduce stress before spine surgery.
- Review your patient packet, which includes exercises and home prep.
- Save the triage nurse phone number for after-hours questions that may come up as you recover from spine surgery.
Watch our online spine education video
Review Medication Instructions Before Spine Surgery
Your care team will give you clear directions about medications to stop, continue or adjust before spine surgery.
- Share a full list of all current meds, vitamins and supplements at your preop visit.
- Pause medications like NSAIDs or blood thinners as directed.
- Take only approved medications on the day of surgery.
Final Steps Before Your Spine Surgery
The day before your spine procedure is your chance to get organized, clean up and get the rest you need to arrive ready on surgery day.
Make Your Home Recovery-Friendly
Creating a safe, comfortable space before your spine surgery helps you focus on rest and healing.
- Clear pathways and remove throw rugs.
- Add night-lights near your bed and bathroom.
- Move daily-use items to waist level.
- Prepare a supportive chair you can easily get in and out of.
- Consider using a toilet seat riser and shower chair.
Clean and Prep Your Skin for Spine Surgery
Following hygiene instructions helps lower your risk of infection after surgery.
- Shower on the three days leading up to your procedure.
- Don’t shave near the surgical area.
- Use presurgical antibacterial wipes the night before.
- Wear fresh pajamas and sleep on clean sheets. Be mindful of sleeping with pets.
Dress Comfortably on Surgery Day
The clothing you wear to the hospital on the day of your spine surgery should be easy to remove and allow room for dressings or a brace.
- Wear or bring a zip-up or loose button-down shirt.
- Wear slip-resistant shoes that don’t require bending to put on or take off.
- Bring essentials like your ID, insurance card, toiletries and CPAP machine or other assistive devices.
Follow Food and Drink Instructions
Fasting as directed helps keep you safe during spine surgery.
- Stop eating solid foods at 11 p.m. the night before surgery.
- Drink only water or clear liquids up to two hours before check-in.
Final Day-Of Spine Surgery Details
Make final preparations so your spine procedure stays on track.
- Remove jewelry, makeup, lotions, deodorant and nail polish.
- Leave valuables at home.
- Arrive early or on time to allow for check-in and necessary prep.
What to Expect After Spine Surgery
Spine surgery recovery begins in the hospital and continues at home. Our team will help you manage pain, move safely and prepare for the next steps in healing.
Recovering in the Hospital After Spine Surgery
You’ll spend the first few hours after surgery in recovery under close monitoring.
- You may have a brace or large dressing, depending on your procedure.
- Nurses and physical therapists will help you begin safe movement.
- Most patients are discharged the next day.
Learning How to Move Safely After Spine Surgery
- Everyday motions like getting in and out of bed can feel different after spine surgery.
- Our physical therapy specialists will teach you log rolling and safe transfers.
- You’ll practice car entry and exit using a training vehicle on the inpatient floor.
What to Expect in the First Weeks After Surgery
It is generally recommended to walk daily and limit other activities for the first few weeks after spine surgery.
- Avoid bending, twisting or lifting without clearance from your doctor.
- Continue daily walks as directed.
- Use pain control methods outlined in your spine surgery education binder, such as taking pain medication and changing positions frequently.
- Physical therapy typically starts around six weeks, if needed.
Ongoing Recovery and Follow-Up Appointments
- Stay connected to your care team as you heal.
- Attend your scheduled follow-up visit within a few weeks after spine surgery.
- Ask about next steps, such as activity limits, physical therapy or wound care.
- For nonurgent questions, call the triage nurse line at 573-882-2663 for support.
