Neck Fusion Surgery Recovery Time

A cervical spine, or neck fusion surgery involves removing the damaged disc, inserting a bone graft, and then fusing the vertebrae together with a plate. Neck fusion surgery recovery allows the patient’s bone to grow together as one.

Medication

• Pain management through medication is sometimes necessary after fusion surgery to relieve pain and alleviate swelling. Speak with your physician about the use of aspirin products and non-steroid anti inflammatory medications as these might interfere with the healing process.

Work

• The length of sick leave from your work will depend on the number of vertebrae fused and the type of job you have. If you have a sedentary job, you may be able to return one week after surgery. It could require several weeks to months if you have a physically demanding job.

Rehabilitation

• After a neck fusion, a patient should rehabilitate the back and neck to improve flexibility and the range of motion, as well as treat lingering pain. A doctor may recommend physical therapy and massage to help you regain some of your strength and reduce pain or swelling. Physical therapy following a neck fusion usually begins at three months after surgery.

Avoid

• In the first few months after a spine fusion, a doctor may recommend avoiding excess motion and heavy lifting to avoid putting stress on the fused vertebrae, which can cause delays in recovery.

Time Frame

• The bones that are joined together with a plate or other hardware during surgery may start to fuse around six weeks, but the whole process can take approximately one year. Recovery time varies from patient to patient.