Be sure to talk to your doctor about recovery time, procedures, and physical therapy. Spinal surgery can be painful for the first few days, so ask about a pain medication that will allow you to get through your day without side effects. Before you have surgery for spinal stenosis, you should know several things. These include the treatment plan devised by your doctor, including rehabilitation time and the type of care you will need post-surgery. In addition a second opinion as to the necessity of the procedure is recommended.