Physical Activity
If you are discharged with a cervical collar, it is to be worn
whenever you are out of bed. When in a reclining position, the
collar may be removed unless otherwise told. 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. At your 1 to 3 week post-operative appointment, we will
give you specific instructions regarding an exercise program
you can do for yourself at home. No heavy lifting, straining,
swimming, golfing, driving or riding a bicycle until after your
return appointment at 1 to 3 weeks.
Working
Your doctor will determine when you can return to work and with
what restrictions. Restrictions are individualized depending on
the type of work you do, and the amount of lifting, bending and
twisting that is required at your work. Please discuss this with
your doctor at your first post-operative meeting.
Driving
Drive a car only when the doctor gives approval. Usually you will
be given general guidelines on the first post-operative visit. Never
drive after pain medications. You may ride as a passenger at any
time and may also ride in a plane as necessary. Take several short
trips prior to a long trip. If going on a long trip, take frequent
breaks (at least every hour).
Medications
Prescription pain medications will be given for discomfort which
is not relieved by over-the-counter medications. We expect the
use of pain medicines to be very mild and usually dispense enough
pain medicines to last the patient throughout the entire recovery
period. With any operation there is a certain amount of discomfort
and pain in the neck and arms which is normal until inflammation
and nerve sensitivity have subsided. This includes numbness and
tingling and pain between the shoulder blades. Heat, moderate exercise
and rest will also help to improve the recovery and decrease the
pain. Laxatives may be used as needed. Narcotic pain medicines
generally cause mild constipation. You may experience some difficulty
swallowing and sore throat for a few days. You may want to eat
soft foods during this period. Drink plenty of fluids when you
eat.
Refills
Refills of narcotics are generally done only during post-operative
visits and will generally not be prescribed over the telephone
unless there are extenuating circumstances. Narcotics will not
be filled on weekends or after hours for whatever reason.
Hygiene
You may take a shower once the original dressing is removed from
the wound. This is usually done in the hospital or the day after
the discharge. Do not let the shower hit directly on the wound
and do not submerse the wound under water such as in a hot tub
or bath tub for at least three weeks. If the wound is wet, merely
pat it dry and do not rub it dry. If the skin sutures were removed
before your discharge from the hospital, it is not necessary to
keep the incision covered. If steri-strips were applied, you may
take them off after five to seven days. If dermabond (glue) is
used, this will slowly come off over two weeks. Do not put any
ointment or lotion on your incision. If sutures are in place, they
will need to come out about 1 week after surgery.
Wound Problems
It is important to look at your wound on a daily basis and inspect
the area for signs of redness, swelling, drainage or pus. Any temperature
increases to 101 or greater, or if swallowing difficulty becomes
worse, or pain which is equal to or greater than your pre-operative
state, should be reported immediately to the office. Please notify
our office at 251-450-3700 immediately if you have any problems
or concerns regarding this. If you feel something is wrong or have
a concern call our office at 251-450-3700 or 800-628-5956.
