Cervical Laminectomy or Laminotomy

Please follow these guidelines after your surgery:

• Increase your activity progressively, as tolerated.

• Use proper body mechanics. The general rule is to keep the spine straight letting your legs do the work of lifting or of getting you out of bed. Three basic rules to follow are: stomach in, knees bent, and back straight.

• You may walk or sit as tolerated. If you walk outside, walk on smooth, even surfaces and wear good walking shoes.

• It is important not to lift more than 7 to 10 pounds, or the weight of a gallon of milk. AVOID REACHING OVER YOUR HEAD. Gentle range-of-motion movements are encouraged, but avoid twisting, bending, or back and forth motion of your neck.

• No driving until you are cleared by your doctor. You must be able to turn your head fully and use your arms freely to be safe behind the wheel!

Please note that persistence of your pre-operative symptoms should improve in time. It may also mean you should limit your activities. If your symptoms do not improve with rest or pain medication, please call our office at (207) 885-0011.