How Long Is Recovery from Cervical Disc Replacement?
Cervical disc replacement and spinal fusion are two surgical options for treating spinal stenosis and cervical spine conditions. When you consider the right option for you, understanding the recovery timeline is crucial to making the decision. Knowing what to expect can help you feel more prepared and confident about your choice.
Comparison of Recovery Timelines
Any recovery timeline is only an estimate — countless factors affect how long you will heal, including your health prior to surgery and your adherence to your doctor’s orders. These are the timelines most people can expect from each procedure.
Cervical Disc Replacement Recovery
This is a minimally invasive approach and recovery typically proceeds as follows:
- Day one: This is often performed as an outpatient procedure, so many people can return home on the same day. Your only restriction is no heavy lifting.
- Week one: The first week or two following surgery is your time for rest and relaxation. You will be limited to no heavy lifting but can otherwise slowly resume normal activities.
- Weeks two through four: You will be able to resume lifting weights and begin physical therapy. You will continue to advance your activities.
- Months two and three: You should be back to all activities by this point.
Most patients achieve full recovery between 2 and 3 months depending in their condition.
Spinal Fusion Recovery
Spinal fusion can also be done in an outpatient setting.
- Day one: This is often performed as an outpatient procedure, so many people can return home on the same day. Your only restriction is no heavy lifting.
- Weeks one and two: The first week or two following surgery is your time for rest and relaxation. You will be limited to no heavy lifting but can otherwise slowly resume normal activities.
- Months one through three: Around the one-month mark, most people begin to get physician clearance to resume some lighter everyday activities. You will still need to avoid heavy lifting, bending and twisting, but you should regain some mobility and strength. Physical therapy often begins during this period to help restore function.
- Months three through six: With the doctor’s recommendation, you will likely be able to return to much of your normal life. The fusion itself usually takes between 6 to 12 months to heal.
Learn More About These Procedures With Rojeh Melikian, M.D.
Recovery is just one part of treating cervical spine conditions. At Rojeh Melikian, M.D., we are committed to supporting you through every step of diagnosis, treatment and recovery. Let us create an individualized treatment plan for you today — call us at 949-269-6879 or schedule a consultation to discuss your surgical and nonsurgical options.
