It’s perfectly normal to go through emotional stages as you prepare for spine surgery. There’s the initial awareness that some type of surgical intervention may provide much-appreciated relief, and there’s also the anxiety that sometimes sets in as the date of the operation approaches. Being excessively stressed before surgery isn’t good, but there are steps you can take to ease your fears.
Ask Questions and Become Informed
A good Santa Monica spine surgeon expects and encourages questions. If you’re still nervous after getting the basics on your what surgery involves, schedule a separate appointment for the purpose of asking questions. You may feel better with clarification on:
- What to expect during recovery
- Potential risks associated with the procedure
- Why your particular surgery is being recommended
Get Support from Friends and Family
You don’t have to face spine surgery alone. Ask a trusted friend or family member to come with you to doctor’s appointments prior to surgery or to the hospital on the actual day of surgery. Simply having someone with you can provide comfort. They can also help by taking notes or thinking of questions you may not have considered.
Prepare as Much as Possible
Cross things off your to-do list before you have your surgery so you’ll have less stress as you recover. This may include ordering medications ahead of time, preparing some meals you can store in the freezer and easily heat up, making arrangements for help around the house, and talking to your boss about doing some work from home.
Keep Your Thoughts Positive
Dwelling on everything that could go wrong will only add to your fears. Instead, shift your focus to the things you’ll likely be able to do with less pain. For instance, you may be able to get back to going on daily bike rides or enjoy more time playing outside with your kids or grandchildren.
If your fear of spine surgery isn’t subsiding after taking any of these suggested steps, talk to a board-certified spine physician in Santa Monica about other options. You may be a candidate for a similar procedure that’s less invasive or there may be other non-surgical remedies you haven’t fully explored or considered.
If you need spine surgery but feel uncertain about receiving spinal fusion or decompression surgery, Santa Monica patients can trust in Dr. Bae and his team of expert surgeons for safe procedures that lead to successful recoveries. Call The Spine Institute Center today at 310-828-7757 to schedule an appointment.