This video: Range of Motion Exercises after Neck Surgery – Yes and Nos, explains specific movements one can do for the cervical spine after neck surgery is performed. Once you are out of the collar, you can start range of motion exercises. These are simple yes and no motions. Yes is flexion and extension motions. Tilt your head up until the neck becomes tight but not painful. Then drop your chin until you feel the same tension. Continue until the neck motions either become achy, tired or tight which is the stopping point. Do the same for the no motion which is rotation to the right and the left. You can do these as many times during the day as you feel is necessary. Obviously don’t overdo these and have the neck go into spasm. There should be no neck pain with these motions. More information on neck exercises and techniques post-op can be found on this website.
About the Author: Donald Corenman, MD, DC
Donald Corenman, MD, DC is a highly-regarded spine surgeon, considered an expert in the area of neck and back pain. Trained as both a Medical Doctor and Doctor of Chiropractic, Dr. Corenman earned academic appointments as Clinical Assistant Professor and Assistant Professor of Orthopaedic Surgery at the University of Colorado Health Sciences Center, and his research on spine surgery and rehabilitation has resulted in the publication of multiple peer-reviewed articles and two books.