Home Recovery

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Physical Activity

Daily walking is the best exercise. Try to increase your distance a little each day, setting a pace that avoids fatigue or severe pain. You may climb stairs when you feel able. Sexual relations may be resumed during the recovery period, but positions that strain the neck or cause pain should be avoided. "Listen" to your body. Discomfort is normal while you gradually return to normal activity, but pain is a signal to stop what you are doing and proceed more slowly.

Working

Your doctor will help determine when you can return to work and with what limitations. If a work release is required, it will be given to you during the first post-operative visit.

Driving

Drive a car only when you have recovered full coordination and are experiencing minimal pain. Do not drive after taking pain medication.

Medication

You should gradually use less pain medication while recovering at home. This can be accomplished by increasing the amount of time between taking pills, then by reducing the number taken each time. A certain amount of discomfort and pain in the neck and arm(s) can be expected until the inflammation and nerve sensitivity have subsided. Heat, exercise, massage, and short rest periods will also help relieve pain.

Hygiene

If the skin sutures were removed before your discharge from the hospital, it is not necessary to keep the incision covered. Unless instructed otherwise, you may take a daily shower or tub bath, which will help you feel better. Let the water run over the incision, but do not scrub or rub over it. Pat it dry. After bathing, massage lotion over the tightened neck muscles.

Inflammation

If you notice increased redness, swelling, or any drainage around the incision after leaving the hospital, notify your doctor.

Nutrition

A well balanced diet is necessary for proper healing. Include foods from each basic food group: dairy products, meats, vegetables, and fruits. Since you will be less active during recuperation, avoid rich, heavy foods and those high in calories but low in nutrients.