Ace Physiotherapy and Sports in Singapore
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+65 81535374 -
ACE PHYSIO SPORTS
East gate Building, 46 East Coast Road
#08-03 Singapore 428766 -
Opening Hours
Mon to Fri: 08:00am - 8:00pm -
Opening Hours
Sat: 08:00am - 4:00pm
Sunday (By prior appointment)
Lumbar Stabilisation
Lumbar Fixation and Fusion
Lumbar fixation and fusion is a surgical procedure aimed at stabilizing an unstable segment of the lower spine. By restricting abnormal movement between the vertebrae, the surgery helps reduce pain caused by irritation of surrounding muscles, ligaments, and nerves. The procedure involves inserting screws and rods to secure the affected vertebrae, while promoting the growth of a bony bridge that fuses the vertebrae together, providing long-term spinal stability and improved function.
Indications for Lumbar Fixation and Fusion
Lumbar fixation and fusion is recommended when instability of the lower spine causes significant pain or limits daily activities. Common conditions that may necessitate this surgery include:
- Spinal degeneration: Wear and tear of the vertebrae or discs that leads to instability
- Trauma: Fractures or injuries that compromise the structural integrity of the spine
- Cancer: Tumors affecting the vertebrae and surrounding spinal structures
This procedure helps restore spinal stability, reduce pain, and improve overall function.
Investigations and Conservative Management
To confirm the cause of lumbar instability, investigations such as X-rays or MRI scans are performed following a detailed physical examination. Initially, conservative management is the first-line treatment, focusing on strengthening the core and lower back muscles to improve spinal control and compensate for instability. If these measures do not provide sufficient relief or if significant instability persists, surgical intervention in the form of lumbar fixation and fusion may be recommended.
Lumbar fixation and fusion surgery is generally performed under general anaesthesia and involves several key steps:
- An incision is made over the unstable vertebral segment to expose the spine.
- In some cases, a lumbar laminectomy is performed to decompress the spinal nerves.
- The spine is stabilized using pedicle screws inserted into the vertebrae at precise locations.
- Bone graft material, often harvested from the iliac crest, is placed across the unstable segments to promote fusion.
- The screws are connected with metallic rods to maintain spinal stability.
- The surgical site is closed carefully in multiple layers.
After surgery, patients typically remain in the hospital for several days, receiving pain management and monitoring while the initial healing process begins.
Benefits of Lumbar Fixation and Fusion Surgery
Lumbar fixation and fusion surgery offers several important benefits, including:
- Stabilization of previously unstable spinal segments
- Reduction in lower back pain
- Improved physical function for daily activities
- Enhanced overall wellbeing
- Better quality of life
These benefits are maximized when combined with a dedicated physiotherapy rehabilitation program, ensuring long-term recovery and optimal spinal function.
Physiotherapy Rehabilitation Post-Surgery
After lumbar fixation and fusion, physiotherapy begins soon after surgery to support recovery and restore mobility. Typically, patients are encouraged to mobilize the day after surgery, with a structured rehabilitation plan tailored to their needs.
Key components of post-surgery physiotherapy include:
- Mobility: Ambulation is the primary activity during the first 4–6 weeks to promote circulation and prevent complications.
- Range of Motion Exercises: Gentle movements of the surrounding spinal structures are introduced gradually to restore flexibility.
- Stretching: Mild stretching reduces stiffness in the spine and relaxes tight muscles.
- Core Strengthening: Targeted exercises strengthen the abdominal and paraspinal muscles, enhancing spinal stability and supporting safe, functional movement.
Consistent physiotherapy after surgery ensures a safe return to daily activities while maximizing long-term spine health.
To arrange an appointment, please call +65 81535374 or visit acephysiosports.com.
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