Dayton released from Mayo Clinic after back surgery

ST. PAUL — Minnesota Gov. Mark Dayton has checked out of Mayo Clinic in Rochester and is headed home for a few weeks of recuperation from back surgery.

Spokeswoman Katharine Tinucci said the governor was released Tuesday morning. He originally had planned to check out on Monday but stayed an extra night to allow for additional recovery.

Dayton, who turns 66 in a few weeks, had surgery last Thursday to relieve a constriction in his lower back. The condition, known as stenosis, is caused by normal wear and tear on the spine. Dayton had been walking with a noticeable limp for a time prior to the surgery.

Dayton has canceled public appearances for the next few weeks while he recuperates at the governor's mansion in St. Paul.

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