Living With an Artificial Disc
Cervical Herniated Discs
Artificial disc replacement with the Medtronic Prestige® Cervical Disc can help you return to normal activity. Be sure to talk with your doctor about your specific recovery plan, so you can follow the best path to a positive outcome.
After Surgery
Ask your doctor about your specific recovery plan following surgery. It is important to follow your doctor’s instructions carefully to recover from surgery as quickly as possible and increase your chances of a successful outcome. Recovering from neck pain and surgery is an ongoing process. How fast you recover depends on the type of surgery you had, your commitment to working closely with your physical therapist, and moving and exercising correctly, as recommended by your doctor.
In most cases, immediately after surgery, your heart and lung function will continue to be monitored, a drainage tube may have been left in your wound, and your doctor may prescribe medicines to control pain and nausea.
Contact your doctor immediately if:
- You get a fever
- The wound starts leaking fluids
- You have trouble swallowing or breathing
- You have trouble urinating
- You have new or increased neck or leg pain or numbness
After surgery, your doctor may refer you to a physical therapist who will teach you exercises to improve your strength and increase your mobility. The goal of physical therapy is to help you become active as soon as possible, using safe body movements that protect your spine. This often includes abdominal strengthening exercises. You may also be taught different ways of standing, sitting, or lifting to avoid reinjuring your spine.
Daily Living
Although most spinal implants are made of metal, they seldom cause issues with metal detectors. However, you might check to see if your spine surgeon can give you a product identification card that you can carry in your wallet. That way you can easily share your back surgery information with others if you need to.
Talk to your doctor about how you can maintain a healthy lifestyle after back surgery. Exercising and eating a healthy diet are important, and your doctor may have some helpful tips for you.
Personal Stories
Read about the experiences of people who have received our products and therapies. You’ll learn first-hand what life was like for these particular patients, both before and after treatment.
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