Neck Spinal Surgery

Activity
Restrictions
For the first 4 to 8 weeks after surgery:

• Do not lift anything heavier than 5kg
• Do not do any kind of heavy exercises or activities that cause you to hold your breath and push, for example weight lifting, lifting or moving heavy objects.

Some contact sports are best avoided after neck surgery – your doctor will advise. 

Neck collar or Neck and back brace
If you wore a collar or brace while in hospital, you should continue to wear it when you get home.  During your outpatient clinic visit, your surgeon will advise you when you can stop wearing the collar or brace.

Driving
Depending on your condition, your neurosurgeon may advise you to stop driving permanently or temporarily if you continue to have weakness and numbness of your limbs. Your doctor will advise if/when you can start driving again. You should not drive if you wear a neck collar or neck and back brace because you are unable to turn your head to check for on-coming traffic/pedestrians and blind spots.

Sexual activities 
You may like to discuss this with your doctor.

Air travel
Please seek advice from your neurosurgeon.

Return to work/school
The type of work you do and the demands of your job, as well as your recovery will determine when you are able to return to work. Your doctor will discuss this with you during your follow-up appointment.

Rest, proper nutrition and a positive attitude will promote healing, but recovery does take time and patience. Recovering after surgery may be a challenging experience. You and your family may find talking to someone or attending a support group helpful. If you would like contact details of associations, organisations and support groups, please ask your nurse.

When to seek medical attention?
Call your doctor or nurse or go to the nearest hospital if you experience new or worsening symptoms:

• Increased weakness/numbness
• Difficulty speaking or swallowing
• Persistent fever
• Wound breakdown or discharge

YOUR HEALTHCARE TEAM
Our doctors, nurses and other members of the healthcare team will guide you and your family members during your road of recovery. If you have any questions, concerns or comments, please feel free to contact us.

For Surgery & Wound related matters 
6357 7545 (Neurosurgery Nurse)
Monday to Friday (excluding Public Holiday),
8.00am to 5.30pm

For appointment and other related matters 
6330 6363 (Neuroscience Clinic)
Monday to Wednesday, Friday: 8.00am to 5.30pm
Thursday: 8.00am to 5.00pm
Saturday, Sunday, Public Holidays: Closed

National Neuroscience Institute
11 Jalan Tan Tock Seng
Singapore 308433
Main Fax: 6357 7016
Appointment Line: 6330 6363

Website : www.nni.com.sg
Email : [email protected]

NOTE: This brochure is given as a guide only and does not replace professional advice and care from your doctor.  You should seek the advice of your doctor before starting any treatment or if you have any questions related to your health, physical fitness or medical condition.