What it is
A laminectomy or decompression removes bone and thickened tissue that narrow the spinal canal or nerve tunnels. The aim is to alleviate leg symptoms and increase walking distance in individuals with stenosis or nerve compression.
Rehabilitation focuses on early walking, posture practice, and progressive strength training to facilitate a return to daily life.
What happens when it occurs
Space around the nerves is increased. Leg symptoms often ease quickly. Mobility and strength return gradually as the wound heals.
Common indications and pre‑operative factors
- Lumbar spinal stenosis with neurogenic claudication
- Recurrent or persistent nerve compression with function loss
- Failure of conservative care to restore walking distance
Who is most affected
Older adults with limited walking tolerance and leg symptoms.
Typical symptoms before surgery
- Leg pain or heaviness with standing or walking
- Relief with sitting or leaning forward
- Back pain may be present
When to seek care
Surgical review when function remains limited despite a good programme. Urgent review for changes in bladder or bowel function.
How we diagnose
A history, neurological exam, walking tests, and MRI are used to confirm the level and cause of compression.
Management
- Protected mobility and wound care
- Early walking with short, frequent bouts
- Strength for legs and trunk, balance training
- Work and community participation plan
Rehabilitation milestones
Phase 1 weeks 0 to 2: wound care, walk often, position strategies.
Phase 2 weeks 2 to 6: extend walking time, add strength and balance drills.
Phase 3 weeks 6 to 12: community distances, graded return to tasks.
Readiness to progress
- Walking distance improved without next-day flare
- Strength and balance targets achieved
- Leg symptoms are stable or improved
Long-term care
- Daily walking or cycling
- Leg and trunk strength twice weekly
- Weight and metabolic health support
Australia snapshot
- Common procedure in the Australian public and private systems
- Many return to independent living and community walking within weeks
- Physiotherapy speeds confidence and function
Latest insights
Decompress, then condition. Distance grows with steady practice.
Pacing and posture keep symptoms quiet while capacity returns.
