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REVIEW PAPER
The impact of physical activity on the prevention of symptom recurrence following lumbar spine surgery: a systematic literature review
 
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1
Faculty of Medicine, Medical University of Warsaw, Poland
 
2
Faculty of Medicine, Medical University of Łódź, Poland
 
 
Submission date: 2025-10-12
 
 
Acceptance date: 2025-10-20
 
 
Publication date: 2026-09-15
 
 
Corresponding author
Jakub Mikołajczyk   

Wydział Lekarski, Warszawski Uniwersytet Medyczny, ul. Żwirki i Wigury 61, 02-091, Warszawa, Polska
 
 
LW 2026;104(3):202-207
 
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ABSTRACT
Background: Spinal surgeries are among the most frequently performed procedures in neurosurgery, with discectomies, laminectomies, and decompression operations being the most common. Chronic postoperative pain, which affects 8–40% of patients who have undergone lumbar spine surgery, is a significant clinical issue. Physical activity is one of the key factors preventing postoperative pain recurrence. Aim: The aim of this study was to review the literature on the impact of various forms of physical activity on pain recurrence in patients following lumbar spine surgery. Materials and methods: This review synthesized evidence from 21 studies (randomized controlled trials, systematic reviews, and meta-analyses from 2005–2024) on exercise-based rehabilitation after lumbar spine surgery. A literature search was conducted in PubMed, Scopus, and Cochrane Library. The included studies focused on adults after disc surgery or spinal fusion and assessed the impact of physical activity on symptom recurrence. Results: Early rehabilitation (within 4–8 weeks post-surgery) moderately reduced pain and improved function. Core stabilization, strength, and aerobic exercises helped prevent recurrence. Individualized walking and education programmes enhanced adherence and reduced the risk of relapse, though study protocols and outcomes vary. Conclusion: Physical activity plays a crucial role in postoperative rehabilitation of the lumbar spine. It contributes to pain reduction, functional improvement, and decreased risk of recurrence. Early mobilization (within 1–2 months after surgery) and simple interventions, such as walking programmes combined with education, have proven to be effective and safe. The most commonly used exercises include stabilization exercises, deep muscle strengthening, and aerobic training. Despite the lack of standardized protocols, physical activity remains an essential component of patient care following lumbar spine surgery.
eISSN:1509-5754
ISSN:0024-0745
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