Caring for Yourself After Neck Surgery

This video describes things you can do every day to be more comfortable after your neck surgery.

It's common for your neck and shoulders to feel tight, stiff, and weak on the side of your surgery. The side you had surgery on is called the involved side.

For example, you may have trouble turning your head when you're crossing the street. It might also be hard to move your head to look up or down and to lift your arm to reach for objects above your head.

Now we'll show you what you can do every day to help your neck and shoulders heal.

One of the most important things you can do is to be aware of your posture. Keep your shoulders and back relaxed and your head upright. This will help your chest, neck, and shoulder muscles be more flexible.

After your surgery, it may be helpful to support your arm so it doesn't pull on your neck and shoulder muscles. You can do this by supporting your hand on a table or armrest when you're sitting, and putting your hand in your pocket or on your hip when you stand.

When you sleep, support your head using pillows. Lie on your back as much as possible to fully support your neck and shoulders.

If you prefer to lie on your side, lie on your uninvolved side and rest the arm on your involved side on a pillow in front of you. This will prevent pulling on your shoulder and neck.

Remember, the uninvolved side is the side you didn't have surgery on. Don't lie on your involved side unless your nurse or doctor says it's okay.

Ask your doctor or nurse if you have any specific lifting or carrying restrictions. After your surgery, you may want to carry your shoulder bag or purse on your uninvolved side as you continue to heal. Do not carry anything that causes you significant discomfort on your involved side.

If you notice any swelling in your face or neck, tightness in your jaw, or trouble with opening your mouth, chewing, swallowing, or talking, call your doctor.

You can also find information online by visiting www.mskcc.org/pe.

For some helpful exercises, watch the Exercises After Your Head and Neck Surgery video.