Here are 10 things you should keep in mind if you know you’re going to be having a back operation in the near future.

1. Weight Management – Obesity can complicate the procedure, and excess weight can overstress the spine when it’s trying to recover after surgery. Do your best to maintain a healthy weight before surgery.
2. Meal Prep – Prepare some healthy meals at home so that you have access to ready-to-eat meals after surgery, because cooking might not be possible for the first few days.
3. Exercise – Try to remain active in the days leading up to surgery, because exercise helps to build muscles and strengthen structures in the spine, which will help you during your recovery.
4. Ask Questions – If you’re feeling nervous about an operation, patients often find it helpful to ask questions and have their concerns heard. Open up to your surgeon about any questions you might have.
5. Work – You may need to miss a couple of days of work or school because of surgery, so let your boss or teachers know ahead of time, and bring home work if possible.
6. Ride – Your doctor will remind you of this as your surgery approaches, but due to the operation and the sedatives used, you’ll probably need a ride home from surgery. Arrange to have a friend bring you to and from the operation.
7. Healthy Foods – Your body is going to need all the vitamins and nutrients it can get after surgery to help expedite recovery, so eat a few healthy meals in the days leading up to and after your surgery.
8. Entertainment – If you’re going to have to take it easy for a couple of days after surgery, stockpile some books, movies and games so that you can keep your brain active and distracted from any post-op pain.
9. Post-Op Supplies – If you’re going to need a cane or other assistive devices after an operation, gather these well before operation day.
10. Doctor’s Orders – Follow any additional instructions your doctor may give you in the days leading up to surgery, like when food and water intake should be halted.