Physical Activity Intervention for Patients Following Lumbar Spine Surgery

Participants will 1) receive Fitbit, 2) be enrolled in a secure electronic platform to access Fitbit data, 3) receive 8-week remote counseling by a physical therapist that will include motivational interviewing and creating SMART goals (1 session per week) through a web-based teleconference platform, and 4) receive usual postoperative care directed by their surgeon. The first session will be 45 minutes and sessions 2-8 will be 30 minutes each. During the sessions, participant's confidence in meeting daily step goals will be assessed using a 0-10 scale. If self-reported confidence to meet their goal is \<8, the physical therapist will help participants modify their goal using techniques such as problem-solving, positive statements and affirmations. Progression will be made only if daily steps goals are met for at least 4 out of 7 days a week. If this weekly step goal is not met, a physical therapist will help the participant identify solutions for realistic progression.

Participants will receive postoperative care as determined by their treating surgeon. This includes lifting restrictions, advice to stay active, and oral analgesics as needed. Physical therapy referral will be at the discretion of the surgeon. However, physical therapy is not typically started until 12 weeks after surgery.