Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion, also commonly referred to as ACDF, is a procedure that helps to treat neck issues that are causing radiating pain in your arms. It’s performed on people with a herniated disc or those with degenerative disc disease that does not respond well to conservative treatment. Part of the damaged disc is removed before two neighboring vertebrae are fused together to limit segmental movement at the location of the damaged disc.
Surgery tends to have a high success rate, but some patients recover faster than others for a variety of factors. In today’s blog, we take a look at some ways you can work to speed up your recovery after ACDF surgery.
Tips To A Speedy Recovery After ACDF
Many of these tips are helpful for any type of spinal operation, but it’s in your best interest to talk with your spine surgeon for some individual advice for how you can best recover after ACDF surgery. Some tips to keep in mind include:
- Stay Active Before Surgery – Many people are surprised to learn that they don’t have to wait until after surgery occurs to start building strength in their injured spinal area. If you begin physical therapy exercises or work to improve range of motion in your spine before surgery, you’ll find it easier to build on these areas post-op. Don’t wait until after surgery to get the area ready for physical activity and therapy.
- Healthy Diet – Your muscles and soft tissues derive key nutrients from your diet, so make sure you are making healthy food choices in the days and weeks leading up to your ACDF. Limit sugars, carbs and fats, as these can lead to the onset of spinal inflammation, which will only make your pre-op pain worse and inhibit healing after surgery.
- Quit Tobacco – Smoking leads to the narrowing of blood vessels that bring healthy blood to key areas of your spine. If your discs and vertebrae can’t get an adequate supply of blood, healing is going to be delayed. For the fastest healing results after surgery, kick the tobacco products to the curb before your operation.
- Early Activity – Rest alone isn’t going to help your spine heal after ACDF. In fact, early activity is what will drive home recovery sooner. Make sure you stay within the recommendations of your treating surgeon, but early controlled activity is better than prolonged rest after surgery.
- Limit or Eliminate Pre-Op Opioids – Numerous studies have shown that preoperative opioid use is associated with a slower or less successful recovery after spine surgery. We understand that you’re in discomfort, but consider working with your surgeon to manage your opioids and other medications prior to your operation to give you the best chance at making a speedy recovery.
- Heed Your Doctor’s Instructions – Finally, make sure that you listen to your surgeon’s recommendations for how to care for your spine and your surgical site post-op. If you’re considering doing something in opposition to your current care guidelines, reach out to your care team for clearance. Don’t drive or head back to work without first consulting your care team if that action isn’t currently recommended.
For more tips, or for more information about ACDF surgery, reach out to Dr. Sinicropi’s office today.
