In addition to your doctor’s instructions, follow these general guidelines during the first 2-4 months after IDET:

• Light lifting is allowed at 6 weeks.
• No chiropractic manipulation or massage for the first 12 weeks.
• No traction for the first 12 weeks.Traction is the application of force or pressure by machine or by hand to elongate the spine.

Physical therapy for the spine is recommended at 8-12 weeks after the IDET procedure. The program should be tailored to your personal needs, depending on your initial diagnosis and the speed of your recovery. Pain reduction typically occurs over a 3-4 month period.