RECOVERY - You need to protect your cervical spine as it heals.  This can best be done by following your surgeon's instructions about restricting activities and wearing your brace if you have one (recommended).  Once you're not longer wearing a brace, you and your doctor can discuss ways to get your neck in shape.

FOLLOW-UP CARE - Your surgeon will schedule one or more follow-up visits to make sure your recovery is successful.  To ensure the best possible results, follow all of your surgeon's instructions.  If you had a fusion, x-rays may be taken to see how well the graft is healing.  The graft should be almost completely healed in about 3-6 months.  Your surgeon may also evaluate nerve function and arm strength if you had arm or hand pain, numbness, or weakness priot to surgery.  Once your neck is healed, your doctor may recommend exercises or phsycial therapy to help strengthen your neck.