Back Pain Support Group

Hi how are you ??

I would do only what the doctor told me to do with excerising.

Gentle excerise may cause more damage.

Walking is great for chronic pain.

I think a lot depends on how long ago you had surgery. After my cervical fusion I wasn't even sent for PT until about 8 weeks afterward.
Then it was up to the physical therapist what I could do. Walking was a big one and stationary bike was his other idea because it moves the whole body gently.
Just be careful.
Amy

Please listen to everyone that has replied, you do NOT want more pain/damage! I had c6-7 last July and was ONLY allowed to walk during the 1st 8 wks, then gentle rom's, you'll get there. I know it feels like you should be doing more but you must to take it slow. The walking really helped me mentally/emotionally especially when you're supposed to be taking it easy. As a mom & girlfriend, I started in doing laundry about 2 wks after my surgery, ya know how idle hands are the devil's playground. Trust me, that was not a good thing to do and it took me alot longer (probably 3-4 mos longer) to get where I wanted to be.

I wish you well and pain free days!!! :)

I would definently do only what the doctor says. I wasn't allowed out of the Aspen collar unless in the shower (still had to keep my head perfectly still) for 4 months after I had C5-C6 fused. I would stick with walking and what ever the doctor says.

I had cervical fusion in june 08, and around three weeks my surgeon said i only had to wear my soft collar when i drive. after my surgery i really could do any exercise as long as it wasn't twisting my neck or putting any pressure on it, so walking, stair masters, biking, i think would be ok, but different doctors have different rules, so ask him once you get a list together.

thanks everyone for your input! i am currently weaning off the neck brace, per doctor's prescription and doing the gentle rom exercises for the neck but nothing else. i will wholeheartedly try to behave! ;-) I don't want any further problems! the frustrating thing i find is that i lost 40 lbs. since last april and since i've been off for the surgery i've gained 5 and can't really do anything to keep it off!! but it will get better...this too shall pass! God bless, everyone!