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What PT has helped or hindered recovery?

Hello.  I am 9 months post op.  I have been experiencing extreme tightness in my lower skull and upper neck, that has been progressively worse in the last few weeks, and causing a great deal of fatigue. Heat helps a little, but not much. My NS did not recommend PT in the first few months after surgery due to CSF leaks; they have all resolved a few months ago.  Today, I received a note from his PA that he will prescribe PT and that Range of motion exercises, stretching, building endurance, massage, TENS may be beneficial in relieving the tightness in the neck.  I have seen some posts here that some pt has been more harmful than good and would like to hear from those who have had PT.  I plan on making an appointment for a full consultation before I begin, but value all of your opinions first.  Thank you all so much!
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3060676 tn?1440702944
I had the same tightness and stiffness after my first PFD.  Maybe about 5 months later I began PT and it helped tremendously! They used a TENS on my upper back and did range of motion exercises. My PT contacted my NS office to be sure his plan for on target.  I felt much better after a few weeks.  The first few visits were tiring and painful because I was not moving those muscles at all.  Ice helped after those visits.
Good luck to you!
Rhea
Helpful - 0
620923 tn?1452915648
COMMUNITY LEADER

  Hi...miss u on the forum.....it sounds like u may have tight muscles from not moving...make sure ur PT knows what u can and should be doing as not all exercises are ok for us.

The RX for PT should include that but ask and make sure it does.

Good luck.
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