re:Spinal Internal Fixation

[sarahpomeroy]

I am a physiotherapist who has been qualified for 3 years.
Recently I sustained an L1 burst fracture which was managed with internal fixation, namely 'C-D instrumentation', which means I have 2 vertical rods, 3 horizontal large screws, and some other smaller screws and hooks inserted into my spine from T10-L2.
I have been advised to wear a brace for 3 months.
In my career, I have only seen patients with this type of surgery as in-patients. Has anyone treated similar patients later down the line? or does anyone know about the long term implications of this surgery or restrictions? My search of the 'physio library' did not really leave me very much more knowledgable. Can anyone advise me or give me any information?

[martinberg]

In my experiance the restrictions include
brace and no sitting for 4 to 6 months depending
of type of fixation. During this time they are aloud to walk as much as they want. Stairwalking - one step at the time. Sleeping on the back. After that the patient gradually starts to sit and stops wearing brace. At the same time physical therapy starts.
As for the traumatical ones I´ve only seen one and he had about the same restrictions as you. I haven´t seen anyone later in the rehab-process.