Cervical Fusion Dos and Don'ts: How Physical Therapy Can Help With Recovery

Cervical fusion is a surgical procedure that involves fusing two or more vertebrae in the neck to create a solid bone mass. This is often done to treat herniated discs, spinal stenosis, and degenerative disc disease. While a cervical fusion can effectively reduce pain and restore mobility, recovery can be challenging. Recovering from cervical fusion surgery requires patience, dedication, and careful management of your body and movements. Following your doctor’s instructions and incorporating physical therapy into your recovery plan can help ensure a safe and successful recovery. Our post-op program at EW Motion Therapy is perfect for cervical fusion patients - our expert team of physical therapists can create a custom treatment plan for your needs during recovery. Even if you decide our services are unsuitable for your needs, you can still read on for our discussion of:

1. What a cervical fusion is 

2. The “Do’s and Don’t” of recovery

3. How physical therapy can help

What is cervical fusion? 

Cervical fusion is spinal surgery to join two or more vertebrae in the neck region. The procedure involves removing the damaged or degenerated disc between the vertebrae and replacing it with a bone graft. The bone graft is usually taken from the patient's body or a donor source. The bone graft is then held in place with hardware such as screws, plates, and rods until it fuses with the existing vertebrae. There are several reasons why someone might undergo cervical fusion surgery. Here are a few of the most common reasons: 

1. Degenerative disc disease: This condition occurs when the discs in the cervical spine begin to break down due to wear and tear, leading to pain and discomfort. Cervical fusion surgery can help stabilize the spine and reduce pain.

2. Herniated disc: A herniated disc occurs when the soft material inside a spinal disc pushes through a tear in the outer layer. This can cause pain and discomfort in the neck and arms. Cervical fusion surgery may be recommended in severe cases to relieve pain and prevent further damage.

3. Spinal stenosis: This condition occurs when the spinal canal narrows, putting pressure on the spinal cord and nerves. Cervical fusion surgery may be recommended to relieve pressure and restore stability to the spine.

4. Trauma: A severe injury to the neck, such as a fracture or dislocation, may require cervical fusion surgery to stabilize the spine and prevent further damage.

5. Tumors or infections: In rare cases, tumors or infections in the cervical spine may require surgical intervention, including cervical fusion surgery.

Cervical fusion surgery is typically recommended when conservative treatments such as physical therapy and medication have failed to relieve pain and improve mobility. If you are experiencing chronic neck pain, stiffness, or weakness, consult your healthcare provider to determine if cervical fusion surgery is appropriate.

Dos and don’ts of cervical fusion recovery 

Recovering from cervical fusion surgery requires careful body management and movements to ensure a safe and effective recovery. There are certain things you should avoid and certain things you should do to promote healing and prevent complications. Here are some tips on what to avoid and what to do while recovering from cervical fusion. 

What to do

1. Follow your doctor's orders: Your surgeon will provide specific instructions (aka protocol) on what to do and what not to do during your recovery. Following these instructions carefully is essential to ensure a safe and effective recovery.

2. Rest and take it easy: Rest is critical during the recovery process, and it's essential to avoid excessive physical activity that could hinder the healing process. Taking short walks or light stretching can help promote circulation and prevent stiffness, but check with your doctor or physical therapist first.

3. Stay hydrated and eat nutritious foods: Proper hydration and nutrition are essential for healing and recovery. Drink plenty of water and eat healthy foods to support your body's healing process.

4. Keep a positive attitude: Recovery from cervical fusion surgery can be challenging, but maintaining a positive attitude can help you stay motivated and focused on your goals. Stay in touch with loved ones and seek support from your healthcare team if needed.

What not to do 

1. Avoid heavy lifting: Avoid any heavy lifting or strenuous activity that could stress your neck and spine. This includes lifting weights, carrying heavy objects, or engaging in high-impact exercise.

2. Don't smoke: Smoking can impede the healing process by reducing blood flow to the surgical site, so avoiding smoking and exposure to secondhand smoke during recovery is essential.

3. Don't drive: You should avoid driving for several weeks after cervical fusion surgery, as sudden movements could cause pain or damage the surgical site.

4. Don't neglect your physical therapy: Physical therapy is essential to recovery. Neglecting your prescribed exercises and appointments could impede your progress and prolong your recovery.

How can physical therapy help? 

Physical therapy is an essential component of cervical fusion recovery. It can help patients regain strength, flexibility, and mobility while reducing pain and preventing further injury. Here are a few ways physical therapy can aid in the recovery process. 

Restoring range of motion 

After a cervical fusion surgery, it’s essential to restore the range of motion in the neck gradually. Physical therapy can help patients gradually increase their range of motion while avoiding sudden movements that could cause further damage. Your physical therapist will work with you to develop a range-of-motion exercise program tailored to your specific needs and abilities. 

Strengthening muscles

Cervical fusion can cause neck, shoulder, and upper back weakness. Physical therapy can help patients build strength to improve posture and reduce pain. Your physical therapist will design an exercise program that targets the muscles affected by surgery that is individual to you. 

Improving flexibility

Stiffness and reduced neck and upper back flexibility are common side effects of cervical fusion. Physical therapy can help patients improve flexibility by incorporating stretching and range-of-motion exercises into their treatment plan. This can help reduce pain and stiffness and improve overall mobility. 

Managing pain

One of the primary purposes of physical therapy during recovery is to manage pain and discomfort. Your physical therapist may use various techniques, such as heat therapy, cold therapy, and massage, to reduce pain and swelling. They can also teach you exercises and techniques you can use at home to manage pain.

Preventing future injury

Physical therapy can help prevent injuries by teaching proper posture and body mechanics. Your physical therapist will work with you to identify any postural imbalances or habits that may contribute to future injury. They can also teach you techniques that will help you maintain proper posture while at home and work.

Cervical fusion recovery can be a challenging process. However, physical therapy can be highly effective in helping patients regain strength, flexibility, and mobility while reducing pain and preventing further injury. If you are recovering from cervical fusion surgery, consult a licensed physical therapist about developing a customized treatment plan that meets your unique needs and goals. We work with many cervical fusion patients at EW Motion Therapy, and our ultimate goal is to reduce pain, improve mobility, and get you back to doing the activities you love. If you are curious about what else physical therapy can do for you, click the button below to download our answers to 20 frequently-asked physical therapy questions.