After spine surgery, taking that first few steps can feel daunting—but walking is absolutely the most important recovery exercise you can do. At Excel Spine, we emphasize walking from the very beginning, because it strengthens muscles, boosts healing, and helps prevent post-operative complications.
When Can You Start Walking?
Depending on the procedure:
- Lumbar Procedures (MIS TLIF, MIS LLIF, LESS): Walking usually begins the same day or within 24 hours after surgery. Early movement helps restore mobility and speed recovery.
- Cervical Disc Replacement: Walking is also highly encouraged. Patients often start short, gentle walks immediately after surgery, building endurance without putting strain on the neck.
Tips for Safe and Effective Walking in Recovery
Excel Spine recovery guidelines offer excellent direction:
- Start with short, frequent walks throughout the day instead of one long walk.
- Focus on posture and core stability during walking to support proper healing.
- Listen to your body: if walking increases pain for more than two hours afterward, you’re walking too far too soon.
- Make walking a lifelong habit—not just for recovery but for ongoing spinal health.
What Walking Helps Strengthen and Improve
Walking provides a wide range of essential recovery benefits:
- Muscle strength and endurance—particularly in the back and legs.
- Circulation—important for healing and reducing risks of blood clots.
- Flexibility and joint mobility, preventing stiffness.
- Mental well-being—boosting mood and confidence during recovery.
When Walking Makes the Difference
- After MIS TLIF, patients often go home the following day—but are up and walking in the hospital the same day.
- LESS (Laser Endoscopic Spine Surgery) allows patients to walk the same day and resume light activity within days—which is only possible when walking is part of the plan.
- Cervical Disc Replacement patients are also encouraged to walk right away—gentle, frequent walking helps relieve stiffness in the neck and shoulders, reduces clot risk, and accelerates overall recovery without putting stress on the cervical spine.
Ready to Step into Your Recovery?
Walking is powerful but a personalized recovery plan makes all the difference. We offer step-by-step guidance tailored to your surgery and your goals. Submit your MRI for a FREE review or schedule a consultation, and we’ll help you understand if you’re a good candidate for minimally invasive surgery.