If you’ve had spinal fusion surgery, you may have been told never to see a chiropractor. Maybe your surgeon warned you that adjustments could be dangerous, or perhaps you’ve assumed that chiropractic care isn’t an option anymore.
Well, I have good news for you—chiropractic care can still help, even if you have a spinal fusion! You just need the right kind of care.
Let’s talk about how Upper Cervical Chiropractic works for fusion patients and why you shouldn’t automatically rule it out.
What is Spinal Fusion?
Spinal fusion is a surgical procedure where two or more vertebrae are permanently joined together using screws, plates, or bone grafts. The goal is to stabilize the spine and prevent movement that could worsen conditions like:
- Herniated discs
- Degenerative disc disease
- Spinal fractures
- Severe scoliosis
By fusing the bones, the surgery eliminates movement in that part of the spine, which can relieve pain and prevent further nerve damage. However, many fusion patients still struggle with pain in other areas of the spine.
Common Issues After Spinal Fusion
While fusion can help stabilize the spine, it can also create new problems. The most common complaints I see in fusion patients include:
- Pain at the base of the skull & lowest part of the neck
- Soreness between the shoulder blades
- Numbness or tingling in the arms and hands
Why does this happen? Because when one section of the spine is immobilized, the areas above and below it have to work harder to compensate. This can lead to misalignments, muscle strain, and nerve irritation—which is where chiropractic care comes in.
Is Chiropractic Safe for Spinal Fusion Patients?
Yes and no.
It all depends on your specific case—which part of the spine was fused and why.
If you have an acute spinal fracture or malignant tumor, chiropractic care is not recommended.
If you had fusion due to disc herniation or degeneration, upper cervical chiropractic care may still be a great option!
The problem is that many surgeons aren’t familiar with modern chiropractic techniques and assume all adjustments involve aggressive twisting and cracking. But that’s not the case—especially with Upper Cervical Chiropractic.
How Upper Cervical Chiropractic Helps Fusion Patients
Unlike traditional chiropractic adjustments that involve forceful twisting, Upper Cervical Chiropractic focuses on gentle, precise corrections to the top of the spine (the atlas and axis vertebrae).
Here’s why it works:
- No twisting or popping – Upper Cervical adjustments are extremely gentle and don’t put stress on the fused area.
- Improves nervous system function – A properly aligned upper neck ensures better communication between the brain and body, helping with pain and nerve function.
- Relieves pressure on surrounding areas – When your upper neck is aligned, it reduces strain on the lower neck and shoulders, which often compensates for the fused section.
Many of my fusion patients experience less pain, better mobility, and even improved nerve function after Upper Cervical care!
You Don’t Have to Live in Pain
If you or someone you know has had spinal fusion, don’t assume you can’t benefit from chiropractic care. While not everyone is a candidate, many fusion patients can safely experience the benefits of Upper Cervical Chiropractic. If you’re in the Fort Myers area, call our office for a consultation! Let’s find out if Upper Cervical care can help you regain comfort and mobility.
