Blog article
Spinal fusion surgery: Preparation, recovery, and when it’s necessary
While it can be effective in some cases, it’s important to understand what the procedure involves, what to expect during recovery, and whether it’s really the best option for you.
What is spinal fusion surgery?
Spinal fusion is a type of back surgery that joins two or more vertebrae (bones) in your spine together so they can’t move. To do this, surgeons use a small piece of bone or bone-like material (also known as a bone graft), sometimes with the help of screws or metal rods, to help the bones grow together over time. This can ease pain caused by pressure on the nerves, but it also means the spine won’t move as freely as before, and nearby parts of the back might have to work harder.1
Preparing for spinal fusion surgery
A bit of planning before your spinal fusion can make a big difference to your recovery. Staying active, eating well, and cutting back on smoking or alcohol can help your body bounce back faster.2
It’s also a good idea to get your home ready before you go into hospital. Stock your freezer with meals, move essentials like toiletries and cooking tools to easy-to-reach places, and organise some help if you’ll need it. Most people go home one or two days after surgery, so the more prepared you are, the smoother things will feel when it’s time to recover at home.
What to expect after spinal fusion surgery
Recovery from spinal fusion surgery takes time and looks different for everyone, but research shows some common patterns. In the first week or two, most people need help with everyday tasks like dressing, showering, or making meals. By week two, many patients begin walking short distances with support, and some can manage light household tasks with rest breaks. By week four, many describe small but meaningful improvements in mobility and confidence, though the pace and nature of recovery differ.3
Full recovery, including return to work, hobbies, and daily routine, can take three to six months or more, depending on factors like pre-surgery health, home support, and pain management.3 Your doctor or specialist will provide detailed at-home instructions, including guidance on pain management, movement, and rehabilitation exercises. Always follow this advice closely, as it’s tailored to your specific surgery and will help support a safer, smoother recovery.
Nerve damage from spinal fusion surgery (and other potential complications)
About one in six patients experience a serious complication after spinal fusion surgery. This can include infection, blood clots, nerve injury, or, in rare cases, heart failure.4 Nerve damage can occur if nerves in the lumbar region are compressed, stretched, or accidentally injured during the procedure. Most people recover well, but some may experience numbness, tingling, leg weakness, or long-term issues with bladder or bowel control.5,6
Permanent restrictions after spinal fusion surgery
In some cases, there may be long-term or even permanent restrictions following spinal fusion surgery. This is more likely if the fusion involved multiple levels of the spine or if recovery didn’t go as expected. For example, high-impact or contact sports may be off-limits for some people to avoid damaging the fused area.7
When can I travel after spinal fusion surgery
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer when it comes to flying after spinal fusion surgery. Your ability to travel will depend on several factors, including how well you're recovering and whether there were any complications. If you have travel planned, it’s important to speak to your doctor first. They’ll be able to assess your condition and confirm when it’s safe for you to fly.
Before and after spinal fusion surgery
Before spinal fusion surgery, many people experience long-term back or leg pain that hasn’t improved with physiotherapy, medication, or other treatments. The decision to have surgery is usually made when pain or spinal instability starts to seriously affect daily life. After surgery, recovery can look very different from person to person.3
A recent study found that some patients make steady progress, gradually walking more, doing light chores, and regaining independence within the first month. Others bounce back quickly with strong support and motivation. But for some, recovery is more difficult, with ongoing pain, fatigue, or emotional stress making it hard to feel like they’re improving. These early weeks are often challenging, and recovery isn’t just physical, it’s shaped by mindset, support, and how well people adapt to changes in their body and lifestyle. Understanding these different recovery paths can help set realistic expectations and prepare you for what’s ahead.
When is spinal fusion surgery necessary?
Spinal fusion surgery is usually only recommended when part of the spine is unstable or pressing on nerves which can cause serious problems like leg weakness or trouble with bladder or bowel control.1 It also may be considered when low back or lumbar pain has been caused by an infection, cancer, or injuries that make the spine painful or unstable.8 In kids and teens, it can help straighten the spine in cases of scoliosis when bracing doesn’t work.9
When is spinal fusion surgery not necessary?
For most people with long-term lower back or lumbar pain that isn’t caused by nerve problems, spinal fusion usually isn’t helpful, with studies showing it often works no better than non-surgical interventions.10 In addition, revision surgeries, additional procedures required due to complications or incomplete pain relief, are relatively common. Some data suggests the revision rate could be as high as 45%11, indicating that the initial lumbar spinal fusion surgery may not always deliver lasting benefits, leaving patients with ongoing discomfort.
How HBF can help
If you and your doctor decide a spinal fusion is the best course of action, HBF is here to help. Log in to myHBF or call 133 423 to check your level of cover and find a specialist using our Find a Provider tool.
If you have eligible extras cover with HBF, you may be able to claim benefits for services that support managing back pain without the need for surgery, such as:
- Physiotherapy: A physio can assess your condition, provide targeted exercises to strengthen your back, and help you maintain mobility while reducing discomfort.
- Exercise physiology: Get expert guidance on physical activity tailored to your needs, focusing on improving your strength, flexibility, and overall fitness to support your spine.
- Remedial massage: Recover with massages designed to ease muscle tension, reduce spasms, and alleviate back pain.
- Psychology: A psychologist can help you develop strategies to manage stress effectively, promoting better mental and physical health.
- Nutrition and dietetics: A dietitian can provide advice on a balanced diet to support weight management and overall wellness.
