Spinal Cord Stimulator & Pain Pump - Post-Op Instructions

Activity:

• Limit your range of motion and avoid sudden movements.

• Avoid heavy lifting, bending, and twisting for 3–4 weeks

• Avoid lifting anything over 20 pounds for 3-4 weeks

• If given abdominal binder, wear for 24 hours

• Avoid twisting or bending at the waist

• Use caution when changing positions

• Avoid driving for 2 weeks or 24 hours after the last pain medication taken 

• Limit car rides to necessary trips

Wound Care:

• Keep the wound clean and dry

• Sponge bathe for the first 4 days

• Don't scrub or wash the wounds

• Don't immerse yourself in water for at least 4 weeks

Pain Management: 

• Take all medications prescribed as directed 

• Use ick packs 15 minutes on, 45 minutes off every hour while awake

Bowel Movements:

• Eat a variety of foods high in fiber

• Drink 8 cups of water daily 

• Try a prune juice cocktail 

• May take an over the counter stool softener

Contact your doctor if: 

• You have not had a bowel movement in 24 to 48 hours 

• You notice shortness or breath or chest pain 

• You notice one leg is swollen, hot, red, and painful 

• The drainage increases, has an odor, or has a yellow green color 

• You have a fever greater than 100.4