Postoperatively, patients are fitted with a lumbarsacral orthosis for approximately 2-3 months. This is a two-part hard plastic brace, which is secured by velcro straps. Patients are advised to remain in the brace except when lying flat in bed.

Patients are generally maintained at bedrest the day of surgery. They are typically advanced to ambulation on the day after surgery. Patients are usually advanced to a regular diet on a gradual basis and IV fluids are discontinued when they are able to accept liquids. It is not uncommon for patients to develop an ileus, or a decrease in bowel activity, for several days. This may delay progression of their diet. Antibiotics are given pre-operatively and for 24 hours post-operatively. If the patient is independent with ambulation, able to tolerate a regular diet, and afebrile and able to void, they are generally discharged 4-6 days following surgery. Average length of stay for 115 patients has been 5.5 days with range 3-10.

Patients are advised at the time of discharge to avoid activities such as bending, lifting, and vigorous twisting. They are instructed on body mechanics or techniques in sitting, standing, and transferring out of bed etc. Patients are typically prescribed pain medication to be taken by mouth as needed and occasionally anti-inflammatory medication for residual nerve root swelling and irritation.

Patients are generally advised to refrain from getting the incision wet for three days post-operatively. At that time they may shower. It is generally advisable to avoid submerging the incision in a tub or pool for at least one week.

Follow-up examinations are typically conducted at one week, one month, three months, 6 months and 1 year post-operatively.

Strict limitation of bending and lifting is continued for 2-4 months, with a gradual decrease in restrictions by 4-6 months. Patients are usually able to return to sedentary activities within the first month. At approximately 2-3 months post-operatively patients are referred for physical therapy and their brace discontinued. This includes a graduated course of lower extremity and lumbar flexibility, strengthening, and instructions on body mechanics and postural alignment. Patients are generally advised to increase their recreational and daily activities commensurate with their progress at physical therapy.