Exercise after lumbar disc surgery: exercise schedule, allowed and prohibited movements, and safe starting times

Allowed movements include walking, light stretching, and hydrotherapy, while strenuous exercise, sudden bending, or heavy lifting are prohibited. After lumbar disc surgery, patients usually have two main concerns: what sports are allowed and when can they start? Choosing the right exercise program plays a vital role in preventing re-injury and quickly returning to everyday life. Based on scientific evidence and expert experience, this article presents safe sports, prohibited sports, when to start activities, and physical therapy tips. Why is exercise important after lumbar disc surgery? - Strengthening the abdominal and back muscles: better support for the spine - Reducing pain and swelling: helping to improve blood circulation and tissue repair - Improving flexibility and balance: preventing future problems and reducing the risk of injury When should we start exercising after lumbar disc surgery? ### Early days after surgery: - Walking 5-10 minutes several times a day - Very light stretching movements under the supervision of a physiotherapist - Pain and swelling control ### 2-4 weeks later: - Light stretching and strengthening movements - Specific physiotherapy exercises for back and abdominal muscles ### 6-8 weeks later: - Bodybuilding style exercise with low weight - Hydrotherapy and balance exercises Before starting any activity, a doctor's or physiotherapist's approval is always required. Types of sports after lumbar disc surgery ### Gentle stretching movements - Hamstring stretch - Stretching the muscles of the back of the thigh - Stretching the neck and shoulders (if recommended by the physiotherapist) ### Strengthening exercises - Strengthening the abdominal and back muscles - Bridge movements - Core exercises ### Balance exercises - Balance exercises on the Swiss ball - Standing on one leg with support Related content: Care after lumbar disc surgery - Light aerobic exercises - A leisurely walk - Light stationary bike Allowed sports after lumbar disc surgery Prohibited sports after lumbar disc surgery Read more: Lumbar disc laser Important points during exercise The important points that you should follow while exercising after lumbar disc surgery are as follows: - Do the movements slowly and controlled. - Stop training in case of severe pain. Combining physical therapy exercises with light daily activities gives the best results. - Using a medical belt if recommended by a doctor. Bodybuilding exercise after lumbar disc - Starting light resistance exercises with light weights after the doctor's approval - Focusing on abdominal and back muscles without direct pressure on the spine Avoiding heavy movements and sudden bending Physiotherapy and hydrotherapy - Physiotherapy: specific exercises for back, abdomen and hip muscles; Reduce pain and swelling - Water therapy: reducing pressure on the spine, increasing range of motion and speed of recovery - Starting exercise under the supervision of a specialist is usually recommended 4-6 weeks after the operation Common mistakes of patients - Starting heavy exercise too early - Complete avoidance of movement and light exercise - Relying on unscientific and internet advice without consulting a doctor Care after lumbar disc surgery - Compliance with doctor's and physiotherapist's advice - Using a medical belt if needed - Avoid lifting heavy objects - Control pain and swelling and report to the doctor if the symptoms worsen Complications of not paying attention to exercises Return of pain and pressure on the disc - prolonging the healing process - The risk of recurrence and secondary injuries Read more: Lumbar disc endoscopy