Back to work after ACDF - neck brace?

[runninggrl]

I am 36 and 4 weeks Post Op and am feeling significantly better, but out of nowhere have severe spasms and pain when I try to do too many regular activities.  I go back to work tomorrow as a second grade teacher and have an hour commute.  I have been having dizzy spells when exerting myself too much and as much as I want to get "back to normal"  I am scared to death to go back tomorrow.  I know my surgeon said to wear my neck brace around lots of people or when I feel like I need the support, but I'm wondering if I should wear it for a certain amount of time during the work day as a preventative measure to avoid the spasms.  Any advice on what people do to get through the day would be great.  I can't take pain killers or muscle relaxers obviously at work, but any other suggestions would be greatly appreciated.  I also have 2 toddlers when I get home to take care of alone (my husband is a police officer who works nights) so I can't take medicine when I get home either.
Also - it was only one disc removed and fused with cadaver bone, with removal of arthritic spurs and a hole drilled to allow room for my nerve (there was stenosis).
Thanks in advance!

[sharadale]

Hey just wanted to let you know that I was given release to drive!!!

[sharadale]

I think I better get some before I go back to work!

[runninggrl]

I bet it feels good to be rejoining the outside world.  I think the mental isolation is the toughest part.  Congrats on your new FREEDOM!  I forgot my Therma Care on Friday and paid for it dearly.  It won't happen again for at least a couple weeks.  But I made it through the first week! Good luck with your return to work.

[sharadale]

I have been feeling better because I have been taking the brave off more. It feels like freedom! Pain is still there but I feel more confident after doctor's explanation.I worked some from home today. Held a virtual meeting through my computer with another teacher/trainer who is doing a workshop that I palmyra months ago. I have a conference call with the state tomorrow. I feel like this will help me get ready for full-time in a couple weeks

[runninggrl]

I'm feeling wonderful after 3 long days back to work, tired, but honestly better than before surgery.  How is your healing going?  Any pain relief yet?

[sharadale]

I am so glad I could help a fellow teacher, you go girl!

[runninggrl]

Therma Care = LIFESAVER!  I don't think I would have gotten through the day without them.  Thank you!  I hope your healing is going well.  

[sharadale]

Hey congratulations on getting out of the brace and going back today. I saw my surgeon today. I am 6weeks post op of multilevel ACDF. My surgeon told me to start weaning myself from the brace 20 min a time for 3 days then increase to 40 min. Etc.
But one thing you might try that helped me deal before the surgery was putting on those 12 hour Therma Care wraps. They really work well to keep your muscles relaxeednand that is half the battle. Plus u can wear them in your sleep too.