
Originally Posted by
TrailRunAZ
I couldn't see if you posted MRI results? Was there disk space narrowing? Herniated disk? One side or both? One level or multiple levels? Is your doc on board with you returning to gym?
If so, I would recommend looking into the following:
Custom fit mouthguard (have a friend with cervical injury who swears by it, was recommended by his surgeon post-op when he was reentering gym)
Identify those exercises that translate the least amount of strain into the neck (for example keep head flat against bench with DB incline press, etc., avoid dead lifts, etc.)
Consider having PT show you kinesio taping pattern that may help retain good cervical posture while lifting (may be utilized to train yourself into proper posture based on your particular injury, while also avoiding injury in the process)
Always opt for higher reps vs heavier weights while progressing
Muscle Science might be able to weigh in with more proactive preventive suggestions.