Dawn,

There is no telling when the pain might come back. But off the top of my head and having had C5/C6 problems before a fusion, just don't lift anything heavy. Watch vaccuming too or anything that requires pushing or pulling. Watch out also for a "head forward" posture at the computer. Women tend to have more of a problem with this than men do. And it might help to get a soft collar in the meantime. Just don't wear it 24/7. I use mine sometimes if I start to feel tightness or spasms...but it is not an all day thing. I wouldn't say to baby your neck because that can really cause some spasms if you are guarding it. Just watch the body mechanics until you can been seen. If I can think of anything else I will let you know. Good luck!