Severe pain at the surgical site and during positional changes is very common within the first 48 to 72 hours following an L4-L5 spinal fusion. This procedure involves significant manipulation of muscle, bone, and soft tissue, making post-operative surgical pain expected. However, severe, uncontrolled pain requires adjustment of her post-operative management by her surgical team.
Post-operative pain management protocols must be prescribed and adjusted by her treating surgical team. They can safely modify the dosage or prescribe multimodal analgesics (such as prescription opioids, muscle relaxants, or neuropathic medications) tailored to her
kidney function, vitals, and current medication list.
Comfort & Non-Pharmacological Measures
*Positioning Support in bed,
*Log-Rolling Technique: Avoid twisting or bending the spine when getting in or out of bed.
*Limit prolonged sitting.
*Ice Therapy: Apply an ice pack wrapped in a dry cloth near the surgical area for 15â20 minutes at a time.
If the above methods are not helpful and her pain is increasing, or she has any other problems, please urgently contact the operating surgeon or his team.