Post-Operative Instructions for Cervical Spine Fusion
Activity
- No lifting more than 5–10 pounds for at least 6 weeks.
- Avoid twisting or bending your neck or back.
- Wear your cervical collar/brace as directed by your surgeon (if prescribed).
- Walking is encouraged as tolerated; begin with short distances and gradually increase.
- Avoid driving until cleared by your surgeon and no longer taking narcotics.
- Avoid strenuous activity, housework, or yard work until cleared.
Wound Care
- Keep the surgical incision clean and dry.
- You may shower 72 hours after surgery unless otherwise instructed. Avoid soaking (baths, pools, hot tubs).
- Pat the incision dry gently—do not rub.
- Do not apply any ointments, lotions, or oils to the incision site.
- Monitor for signs of infection: redness, swelling, warmth, drainage, or fever >100.5°F.
Pain Management
- Take prescribed pain medications only as directed.
- You may also be given muscle relaxants or nerve pain medications—take as prescribed.
- Use ice packs on the lower back (20 minutes on, 20 minutes off) for pain and inflammation.
Nutrition and Hydration
- Stay well hydrated by drinking at least 6–8 glasses of water per day unless on fluid restrictions.
- Focus on a balanced diet rich in protein, fruits, vegetables, and whole grains to promote healing.
- Include foods high in calcium and vitamin D to support bone healing (e.g., dairy products, leafy greens, fortified cereals).
- Limit processed foods, sugar, and caffeine, which may impair healing.
- If your appetite is poor, consider nutritional supplements (e.g., Ensure, Boost) temporarily.
- Avoid alcohol and do not smoke or use nicotine products, as they impair fusion and healing.
- Swallowing difficulties: If you have trouble swallowing. It may be necessary to modify your diet (e.g., soft or liquid foods) until recovery progresses.
Bowel Care
- Constipation is common after spine surgery and narcotic use.
- Drink plenty of fluids and increase dietary fiber.
- Use over-the-counter stool softeners (e.g., Colace) or laxatives (e.g., Miralax) as needed
Follow-Up
- Attend all scheduled follow-up appointments with your surgeon.
- Imaging (X-rays or CT) may be ordered to check fusion progress.
Call Your Surgeon If You Experience:
- New or worsening numbness, weakness, or pain in the arms or legs.
- Loss of bowel or bladder control.
- Fever >101.°F or signs of wound infection.
- Difficulty swallowing or breathing.
- Severe headache or visual changes
