Impact of Direct Lateral Interbody Fusion on Functional Performance

The primary objective of this study is to determine if the timeline of functional performance recovery differs between direct lateral interbody infusion (DLIF)/posterior spinal fusion (PSF) and PSF alone. Participants will complete functional movement tasks that align with standard of care post-operative appointment schedules. Functional movement tasks will include self-selected walking speed, a series of balance tests, performance on a stair climbing task, and hip flexion and knee extension strength. Patient reported outcome tools (questionnaires) will also be obtained at each timepoint, including a visual analog pain scale, a general health/wellness survey and a survey specific to lower extremity function.