Walking: Begin walking as soon as possible after surgery. Short, frequent walks are encouraged and help improve circulation, reduce stiffness, and lower the risk of blood clots.

Neck Motion / Restrictions: Avoid excessive neck bending, twisting, or jerking movements. If you were provided a cervical collar, wear it as instructed. Please see the additional sheet for information. Do not remove it unless cleared by your surgeon.

Lifting: Do not lift anything heavier than 10 pounds for the first 4–6 weeks. Avoid pushing, pulling, or overhead lifting.

Driving: Do not drive while taking narcotic pain medications or while wearing a cervical collar. Driving may typically resume 2–4 weeks after surgery once you have adequate neck mobility and are cleared by your surgeon.

Work & Daily Activities: Light-duty or desk work may be resumed in 2 weeks, depending on symptoms. Jobs requiring physical labor, heavy lifting, or prolonged neck strain should be avoided for at least 8-12 weeks or until cleared.

Keep the incision clean and dry at all times.

• You may shower 24 hours after surgery if there is no drainage, but do not scrub the incision or allow direct water pressure.

• Do not submerge the incision in a bathtub, pool, or hot tub for 4 weeks.

• The surgical glue will flake off by itself; do not pull them off.

• Avoid applying lotions, creams, or ointments to the incision unless directed.

Pain Medications:
Take prescribed pain medications exactly as directed. As pain improves, transition to over-the-counter medications such as acetaminophen if appropriate.

Anti-inflammatory Medications:
Avoid NSAIDs (ibuprofen, naproxen, etc.) unless specifically approved, as these may interfere with bone fusion.

Ice Application:
Ice packs may be applied to the neck or shoulder area for 15–20 minutes at a time to reduce pain and muscle tightness. Avoid heat unless instructed. AVOID HEAD PACKS.

Muscle Spasms:
Muscle tightness in the neck and shoulders is common. Prescribed muscle relaxants, gentle walking, and posture awareness can help.

Medication Provided:

o   Oxycodone- Narcotic for pain for as needed use

o   Cyclobenzaprine- Muscle Relaxant for as needed use

o   Ondansetron- Anti-nausea medication to be used as needed

Mild difficulty swallowing, hoarseness, or a sore throat is common after ACDF and usually improves over days to week.

• Eat soft foods initially and take small bites.

• Stay well hydrated.

• Notify your surgeon if swallowing difficulty worsens, breathing becomes difficult, or symptoms do not improve.

Constipation is common due to anesthesia and pain medications.

• Drink plenty of fluids.

• Eat fiber-rich foods (fruits, vegetables, whole grains).

• Consider stool softeners (e.g., docusate) or mild laxatives if needed.

Call your doctor immediately if you experience:

• Fever above 101°F (38.3°C).

• Progressively increasing pain that is not relieved with medication.

• New or worsening numbness, tingling, or weakness in your legs.

• Loss of bladder or bowel control.

• Redness, swelling, or drainage at the incision site.

• Trouble breathing or swallowing

• Your first post-operative visit is typically scheduled 2–3 weeks after surgery.

• X-Ray will be performed at 3 months and a CT of the cervical spine at 6 months

• If prescribed, set up Physical Therapy for ~2 weeks after Surgery

• Avoid high-impact activities, running, or contact sports until fully cleared—often 3 months or longer, depending on fusion progress.

If you have any concerns or questions, please contact our office.

Emergency Contact Information:

Washington Brain and Spine Clinic- 301-718-9611

Email: LDaggubati@brainsurgery.com