When the vertebrae in your cervical spine have begun to deteriorate, your doctor might recommend a specialized cervical fusion procedure to repair the damage and prevent further pain. Many people worry that fusing the vertebrae together will limit their mobility and prevent them from moving their neck and head normally after the surgery, but that is not normally the case. Here’s what you need to know about fusion surgery and mobility.

This condition occurs when a lumbar vertebra slips out of place. It slides forward, distorting the shape of your spine. This may compress the nerves in the spinal canal. The nerves that exit the foramen (open spaces on the sides of your vertebrae) may also be compressed. These compressed nerves can cause pain and other problems.