Cervical Fusion Recovery: What to Expect After Surgery
Are you about to have a cervical fusion surgery? Or have you just finished undergoing this surgical operation? Worrying about your recovery is normal. But, knowing what to expect after this surgery can lessen your stress.
If you’re preparing for a cervical spinal fusion because of a car accident or are already done with it, this blog can really help you. From what you’ll likely feel after the procedure to what you should do to recover faster, we will discuss it all.
At Surgery Consultants of Florida, our job is to ensure you can go through cervical fusion recovery without any problem.
What You Might Feel After Cervical Fusion Surgery
After a cervical fusion surgery, you will feel a mix of sensations and challenges. Don’t worry. This is normal. During your cervical fusion recovery, knowing what discomforts you’ll experience can help you come up with an effective pain management plan.
Neck and Shoulder Pain
A few hours or days after a cervical fusion operation, you will feel neck and shoulder pain. These discomforts are quite common, especially in anterior cervical discectomy and fusion surgery or ACDF surgery. Because of this, swallowing may be slightly difficult, and moving your shoulders will be pretty hard.
Limited Movement and Fatigue
During the initial recovery period, you will be tired. Your tiredness will limit your movement in the cervical spine area. If your doctor suggests using a brace, your mobility will be reduced further.
Tenderness and Swelling
Since the operation is invasive, the affected area will be swollen and tender. Expect this discomfort to last for a few weeks.
What to Expect Right After Surgery
You already know what kind of pain you’ll experience. It’s time to learn the post-surgery expectations for spinal fusion surgery.
You’ll Need to Stay at the Hospital
Most patients stay at the hospital for more than one day, especially if another surgery is involved, such as cervical discectomy. During your hospital stay, doctors and nurses will check vital signs and monitor any complications to ensure that the procedure is successful.
Pain Medication and Management
Your doctor might give you opioids or prescribe over-the-counter medications to manage your pain. You need to take these medicines to reduce discomfort during the first few days.
Only Short Walks and Light Activities
You can still walk, but only short walks. Although moving can help in recovery, your doctor will likely suggest light walks and activities just to improve blood flow and prevent stiffness. When it comes to lifting, you will be restricted to light loads. Specifically, you can’t lift over 5 lbs. Too much bending will also be prohibited.
Braces and Other Support Equipment
Since the surgery is for your spine, you need to wear braces and other support devices to protect that area while you’re recovering. To ensure maximum efficiency, your care team will guide you on how to wear them and when to remove them. In most cases, these support devices are suggested to be worn for four to five weeks.
Long-Term Cervical Fusion Recovery Expectations
Cervical fusion recovery isn’t only about healing your wound. This process is also about adapting to long-term changes.
Regular Physical Therapy
Physical therapy could be a permanent part of your life after a cervical fusion surgery. This should be expected, especially if the procedure is more complex, such as an anterior cervical fusion surgery. Physical therapies are also highly advised if other operations are involved, such as cervical disk replacement or cervical laminectomy.
Lifestyle Adjustments
Depending on the severity of your case, you’ll likely need to make adjustments to your lifestyle. These include using ergonomic chairs and pillows. You also need to start maintaining a healthy weight by changing your diet to a more nutritious one. Of course, regular exercise should be included in your lifestyle after the surgery.
Healing Timeline
Usually, cervical fusion recovery takes around eight to 12 weeks. But, if the procedure is a complete fusion of the vertebrae, it could take six to 12 months. During this period, you can expect regular follow-ups with your surgeon, X-rays, and other imaging methods to track your progress.
Faster and Smoother Cervical Fusion Recovery With SCOF
If you want your cervical fusion recovery to be faster and safer, trust us here at Surgery Consultants of Florida. Our experienced medical team specializes in treating spinal, neck, and other injuries caused by auto accidents and other trauma-related incidents.
With over 30 years of experience in cervical fusion operations, our spinal surgeries are trusted by many patients. Our orthopedic spine surgeons are dedicated to high-quality and compassionate care to ensure you recover properly without any long-term problems.
After the surgery, you can expect our team to be there while you’re recovering. We will guide you through it all using our pain management, physical therapy, and other services. If you’re ready to have our cervical fusion surgery, contact us today. Safe operation and recovery is our top priority!