The home reno reality star recently underwent a microdiscectomy, one of the most common spinal surgeries which is performed to correct herniated discs. In a new Instagram post, Gaines revealed that she’s been dealing with a back injury since a cheerleading accident in high school. “Basically a basket toss turned back injury,” she explained alongside a photo of her resting in her hospital bed, a pair of sunglasses shielding her eyes and a peace sign thrown up with her left hand. The HGTV host also shared in the caption of the post that it wasn’t her first time undergoing the procedure. “I had my first microdisectomy [sic] in 2001 and had to cancel my second date with Chip Carter Gaines and then had the same procedure on another disc two weeks ago,” she wrote, going on to acknowledge the poor timing. “I’ve always joked that my back likes to act up at the most inconvenient times and I was a bit stressed bc of the timing of it all with the holiday season.” But instead, she’s looking at it all as a bit of a blessing. “But I’m truly grateful for the forced rest during the busiest time of the year,” she continued. “It has been a gift to simply stay put, stare at the wonder all around, and just be still.“She wrapped up the note with a holiday message to her followers, writing, “Wishing you and yours a beautiful Christmas week. It may not all go as planned- but may you find the beauty and embrace the wonder of the here and now. ✨” Patients are typically able to go home the same day following a microdiscectomy but must avoid bending at the waist, lifting more than five pounds, and twisting their bodies for the first two to four weeks to prevent re-injury. Gaines’ post also featured two photos following her release. In the first, she sat on the couch with another member of the family, a roaring fire underneath the mantle. In the second she sat on the sofa alone, the fire burnt down low. Comments were disabled on the post, but we’re sure if they weren’t well wishes would be pouring in from friends and fans alike. We’re glad to see Gaines on the mend and finding the bright spots in a less than ideal situation!
