 Patient Advocate (old timer, 2000 posts)
Joined: Apr 2005 Posts: 2,219 | Hi Molly,
I can tell you that even without radiation my neck was stiff after the disection. I'm sure that the radiation added to the stiffness.
Being diligent with the exercises is the best way to get things moving again. Hopefully you have been given exercises that will stretch the muscles in all directions. I found that the biggest recovery came about after I started using a pulley that I hung over a door.
Although this was primarily to regain my range of motion in my arm, it helped my neck, too. It is a simple, inexpensive device that was obtained through my physical therapist. I would check with your physical therapist first. The one I got is made by Rose Health Care, L.L.C. in Brunswick Georgia 31520. That is all the information on the box. I just Googled them and their number is (912) 466-0022
I hope you feel better soon.
Jerry
Jerry
Retired Dentist, 59 years old at diagnosis. SCC of the left lateral border of the tongue (Stage I). Partial glossectomy and 30 nodes removed, 4/6/05. Nodes all clear. No chemo no radiation 18 year survivor.
"Whatever doesn't kill me, makes me stronger"
| 
