Following spine surgery, a physician may give a patient may instructions designed to aid healing and reduce pain. These may include:

• Use of postoperative devices. Some postoperative devices (e.g., brace, collar) may be necessary after some surgeries (e.g., spinal fusion) to limit pain and prevent re–injury.
  
  
• Instructions for bandages, staples or sutures. Some activities, such as showering, may be restricted until these have been removed. Bulky bandages may be removed before discharge from the hospital in many cases. Staples or sutures may not be removed for several weeks after surgery in some cases.  
  
  
• Pain medications. A physician may prescribe pain medication, such as opioids, after spine surgery. Over-the-counter analgesics may also be effective at reducing pain.
  
  
• Antibiotics. These drugs may be prescribed to prevent bacterial infection of the wound.
  
  
• Inspection of incisions. The site of the surgical incision may need to be checked frequently for signs of infection.  
  
  
• Sleeping positions. Depending on the procedure, certain sleep positions may be recommended or prohibited to aid recovery and reduce pain after spine surgery.
  
  
• Heavy lifting. Lifting objects in excess of 10 to 15 pounds is generally forbidden following spine surgery.
  
  
• Driving. Operating an automobile is not allowed immediately after most spine surgeries. Limiting the time spent riding as a passenger may also be advised to prevent pain and stiffness.

Depending on the condition and the type of surgery, patients may benefit from inpatient or outpatient rehabilitation including physical therapy, exercise therapy, instruction in posture and ergonomics and sometimes occupational therapy.