In the early weeks after IDET, your treated disc(s) will continue to heal, and there may be no change in pain. Your doctor may also suggest that you wear a lumbar brace for the first 6-8 weeks for extra support. Unless your job is physically rigorous, you will probably be able to return to work after 1-2 weeks. However, it’s important to remember that your back may still be healing. In addition to following your doctor’s instructions, it may help to follow these suggestions during the first month after your procedure:

  • No hard exercise—no sports, no swimming, no use of a treadmill or StairMaster ®.
  • No twisting.
  • Limit your lifting to 5-10 pounds.
  • Sit no more than 30-45 minutes at a time.
  • Drive no more than 20-30 minutes at a time.
  • As a passenger, limit car trips to 45 minutes.

  • Use ice packs on your back 1-2 times a day to reduce discomfort.
  • Use over-the-counter painkillers (aspirin, ibuprofen, etc) and other pain medications as needed—but be sure to follow your doctor’s guidance.
  • Support the small of your back with a pillow or cushion when sitting in a chair or in the car.
  • Maintain good posture, and if you have to lift something, lift with your legs as much as possible.
  • Stand, walk around, or lie down between periods of sitting.
  • Recline your car seat when traveling as a passenger.
  • Perform gentle stretching exercises and leg stretches lying on your back on the floor.

After the first week, it is likely that your doctor will recommend that you start walking every day and continue to walk in the weeks to come.

  • Start with 20 minutes of gentle walking once a day. When your doctor says it’s okay, increase your walking to two 20-minute sessions each a day.
  • Increase your walking time gradually after that. If the level of your pain is not greatly affected, you may be able to increase your walking time up to 1 hour a day by the end of week 4, but don’t overdo it.
  • At 2-3 weeks, you can probably begin abdominal brace exercises, lying with your back flat on the floor.

For more information on postprocedural care, see Self-care 2-4 Months After the IDET Procedure.

StairMaster ® is a registered tradermark or Nautilus, Inc.