Ace Physiotherapy and Sports in Singapore
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+65 81535374 -
ACE PHYSIO SPORTS
East gate Building, 46 East Coast Road
#08-03 Singapore 428766 -
Opening Hours
Mon to Fri: 08:00am - 8:00pm -
Opening Hours
Sat: 08:00am - 4:00pm
Sunday (By prior appointment)
Fusion
Cervical Fusion
Cervical spinal fusion surgery is performed to stabilise the neck by joining two or more vertebrae together. The procedure typically uses a bone graft to preserve the normal height of the disc space, allowing the vertebrae to gradually fuse over several months. In some cases, plates or screws may also be inserted to provide additional support and stability. This type of surgery is commonly recommended for conditions such as cervical instability caused by trauma, fractures, dislocations, infections, or tumours.
The primary goals of cervical fusion are to relieve pain, numbness, and weakness, to create more space for the spinal cord and nerve roots, and to restore stability to the spine while preventing deformity or collapse.
Physiotherapy before Cervical Fusion
Engaging in physiotherapy before undergoing cervical fusion surgery can play a vital role in ensuring a smoother recovery. A tailored programme of exercises and regular physical activity will help maintain muscle strength, flexibility, and overall fitness, preparing the body for surgery and aiding in the rehabilitation process afterwards.
Symptoms after a Cervical Fusion
After undergoing cervical fusion surgery, it is normal to feel sore for the first 2–3 days. If bone was taken from your hip for the graft, you may also notice pain when walking during the initial stages of recovery. Patients who have surgery from the front of the neck often experience throat soreness and mild difficulty with swallowing, which usually improves as healing progresses. While wound-related pain tends to reduce fairly quickly, numbness and tingling in the arms or legs may take longer to improve.
Soon after surgery, a physiotherapist will support you in safely moving in bed, rolling onto your side, and beginning to walk—often on the same day as your procedure, sometimes with the aid of a walking frame or stick. You will also practise stair mobility before discharge to ensure safety at home. In certain cases, your surgeon may recommend wearing a neck brace for added support. Most patients remain in hospital for about two days, though complete bone fusion generally takes 3–4 months.
Physiotherapy after a Cervical Fusion
Early physiotherapy plays a key role in regaining strength, mobility, and confidence after surgery. At acephysiosports.com, our experienced physiotherapists specialise in post-operative rehabilitation, guiding you through safe and progressive exercises that restore function, enhance posture, and improve your overall quality of life.
1–2 Weeks
In the first two weeks, physiotherapy focuses on easing pain and gently reintroducing everyday movements. Treatment may include:
- Ice therapy to reduce pain and swelling
- Advice on safe positions and movements for the spine
- Guidance on exercise precautions
- Electrical pain relief devices (e.g., TENS units)
Your physiotherapist will also develop a structured daily walking programme and gentle neck and back exercises to gradually rebuild fitness and help you transition back to routine activities.
2–6 Weeks
As recovery progresses, your physiotherapist will begin introducing targeted strengthening and flexibility exercises to restore function. These may include:
- Stretching to relieve tension and improve flexibility
- Range of motion exercises (bending, straightening, rotating the neck)
- Isometric neck muscle strengthening
- Walking and stationary cycling
This stage focuses on restoring neck mobility, preventing stiffness, and improving stability. Most patients can return to light work within 2–3 weeks, though heavy manual work and high-impact sports are generally delayed until at least three months after surgery.
6–12 Weeks
During this stage, physiotherapy becomes more dynamic, incorporating functional and recreational activities tailored to your lifestyle, work, or sport. Exercises may include:
- Active range of motion for the neck, shoulders, and upper back
- Neck and abdominal strengthening routines
- Aerobic conditioning through walking, swimming, or cycling
- Stretching to maintain muscle length and flexibility
- Sport- or work-specific exercises
Your physiotherapist will monitor progress closely to ensure safe and effective recovery.mplete healing, while non-contact activities may resume after 4 weeks.
12+ Weeks
By three to four months, most patients see significant improvements in strength, mobility, and confidence. Physiotherapy continues to reinforce long-term recovery, focusing on advanced exercises for strength, flexibility, cardiovascular fitness, and functional independence.
The overall success of cervical fusion rehabilitation largely depends on your commitment to the physiotherapy programme. At acephysiosports.com, we design personalised treatment plans to ensure you regain full function and return to daily life and sporting activities safely.
To arrange an assessment with AcephysioSports.com, please contact us or call +65 8153 5374. Alternatively, you can book an appointment online today!
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Mon - Fri: 8am - 8pm
Sat: 8am - 4pm
Sun: On Appointment Basis
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