During the first 6 weeks after the IDET* procedure, the disc will continue to heal and there may be no change in pain. A lumbar corset may be worn for the first 6-8 weeks. While patients can usually return to office work in 2 weeks, they should adhere to the following limitations during their first month post-procedure:

• No sports, swimming, use of treadmill or stair-climber.
• No bending, twisting, or housework.
• Restrict lifting to 5-10 pounds.
• Sit no more than 30-45 minutes at a time.
• Drive no more than 20-30 minutes.
• As a passenger, limit journeys to 45 minutes.

• Use icing one or two times per day to reduce discomfort.
• NSAIDs and other pain medications are allowed.
• Use good lumbar support when sitting in a chair or a car.
• Use proper body mechanics.
• Stand, walk around, or lie down between periods of sitting.
• Walk as much as is tolerated.
• Recline the seat when traveling in a car.
• Perform gentle stretching exercises and leg stretches lying with your back on the floor.

After the first week, patients should start walking daily starting with 20 minutes once per day, eventually increasing to twice per day. Patients might expand this routine to 1 hour per day by the end of the 4th week, unless symptoms increase. At 2-3 weeks, patients may begin abdominal brace exercises by lying with their back flat on the floor.

For further information on postprocedural care see Long-term Postprocedural Care.