Neck surgery is a significant procedure that requires proper aftercare to recover effectively. After undergoing neck surgery, there are many things that you’ll need to make the recovery process easier and more comfortable.
This blog post will discuss the must-haves after neck surgery to help you get back on your feet quickly. Whether you’re undergoing spinal fusion, discectomy, or any other form of neck surgery, this guide will help you identify the essential items needed for a smoother recovery. From comfortable pillows and supportive braces to food and hydration essentials, let’s dive into the must-haves after neck surgery!
1. Support: Use of hard bracing for post-surgery recovery
Support is crucial during post-surgery recovery. One essential item for neck surgery recovery is a hard brace. This device limits neck movement, supports the head, and aids bone healing.
Some studies question the need for a cervical brace. However, doctors often prescribe it after spinal injuries or surgeries to immobilize the spine and control movement.
The hard brace should be worn for several weeks after surgery. Support also includes proper nutrition, daily walking, and pain management.
Other must-haves after neck surgery include slip-on shoes, ear plugs, grabbers, dry shampoo, and rest. These items help ensure a smooth recovery and comfort throughout the process.
2. Slip-on shoes and slippers: Must-have footwear for mobility
After neck surgery, slip-on shoes and slippers are essential for mobility. Patients might find bending over or reaching their feet challenging. Slip-on footwear can make daily life significantly easier and reduce fall risks.
Proper footwear is vital during post-surgery recovery, especially for those with limited mobility.
Combining slip-on shoes with hard bracing, regular walking, and pain management can enhance recovery. Silvert’s adaptive shoes and slippers are designed for individuals with disabilities, making life more comfortable and active. Choosing the right footwear speeds up the neck surgery recovery process.
3. Walking: Importance of walking daily after surgery
Walking is vital after neck surgery. It boosts blood flow, prevents constipation and pneumonia, and reduces muscle soreness.
It’s recommended to start slow and aim for 30 minutes of walking at least six weeks post-surgery. Slip-on shoes aid mobility, and hard bracing provides essential support during recovery.
4. Ear plugs: Blocking out noise during recovery
Blocking out disruptions is crucial after neck surgery. This includes using earplugs to reduce noise during rest and sleep.
Dizziness and ear pain are common post-surgery. Ear plugs can help alleviate these symptoms. Pre-molded, reusable earplugs are cost-effective and offer good hearing protection.
It’s important to note that the hearing protectors should neither over nor under-protect the user, and 3M offers an easy-to-use selection system for E-A-R™ and other hearing protectors. Patients can create an optimal healing environment for better rest and recovery by incorporating ear plugs into the postoperative recovery process.
5. Grabbers: Assistance with reaching for objects
After neck surgery, patients are often advised against excessive reaching or stretching. This can make tasks like picking up objects from the floor or reaching high shelves difficult.
Grabber tools are a helpful aid during post-surgery recovery. Along with other essentials like hard bracing, slip-on shoes, and daily walking, a grabber tool simplifies everyday tasks. It reduces the risk of injury or strain after surgery.
By placing commonly used items within reach and using a grabber for harder-to-reach objects, patients can maintain independence and have a more comfortable recovery.
6. Dry shampoo: Convenient hair care during recovery
Post-neck surgery, regular hair washing can be challenging. Dry shampoo offers a convenient solution, especially for those worried about wetting their dressing or avoiding hair washing hassles.
Besides being a quick fix, dry shampoo is gentle for those needing care around lasered areas. Proper post-surgery care is vital for healing. Using dry shampoo reduces stress, letting patients focus on other recovery aspects.
7. Rest: Initial recovery period following discharge from the hospital
Rest is crucial after neck surgery. Once discharged, patients should rest for the first 24-48 hours to recover from the procedure.
Activities like excessive bending, twisting, pushing, pulling, or lifting should be avoided initially. While hospital stays after this surgery are typically short, further recovery spans the next four weeks.
Remembering post-surgery restrictions, like avoiding twisting and bending, is essential. Patients should also walk thrice daily with a collar and assistance before hospital discharge. Multiple rest periods are needed in the first two weeks post-discharge. As endurance builds, fewer rests are required. A minimum of eight hours of sleep nightly is crucial. In the first week, patients should sleep early, sleep in, and frequently rest during the day.
8. TED stockings: Preventing thromboembolism
TED stockings are vital after neck surgery. These elastic stockings prevent blood clots or thromboembolism, a significant risk during recovery.
Medical guidelines suggest high-risk patients use mechanical VTE prophylaxis, including compression stockings, combined with anticoagulant drugs to prevent DVT. TED stockings effectively prevent thromboembolism, especially for immobile patients or those at high DVT risk. Incorporating TED stockings ensures a safe healing process.
9. Pain management: Importance of controlling pain with medication
Pain management is paramount after neck surgery. While medication controls pain, it should be combined with non-drug techniques.
Along with nutrition, support, and mobility aids, pain management is a priority for smooth recovery. Acetaminophen, like Tylenol, is commonly used for pain. However, patients should always consult healthcare providers before medication use. Proper pain management is essential to prevent complications and ensure active participation in daily activities and rehabilitation.