If you have difficulty breathing, feel tightness in your throat or inability to swallow, you may have “airway compromise” and is a medical emergency. Seek evaluation at once.
You should be using a hard collar at all times when not sleeping.
If sitting, use only a straight back chair to ensure proper support not to exceed a half hour at a time. You may increase your sitting time slowly.
Lie only on a firm mattress, no couches or recliner chairs.
Absolutely no bending, stooping, pushing, lifting or straining.A
bsolutely no driving for 6-12 weeks.
It’s normal to have mild sore throat/swallowing difficulty/hoarseness for several weeks. Over the counter throat lozenges and occasionally oral steroids may help decrease swelling.
Avoid housework, especially vacuuming and sweeping.
OK to cook, as long as you are not lifting anything heavier than 5 pounds.
Learn proper body mechanics to maintain a neutral spine position.
Wear Hard Cervical Collar is directed by Dr. Song.
Increasing pain is a red flag telling you to rest.
DO NOT: Engage in strenuous activity for at least 10 weeks after surgery.