Just for safety's sake PLEASE don't vacuum! Like my neuro and 2 others told me, spinal patients should NOT vacuum -- EVER. It's the back & forth motion that does it -- and now ESPECIALLY since you're healing from a FUSION -- good grief, don't do it! Why risk it?

If you do wear a collar, use it off and on. Continuous wearing will make your neck muscles weak. So wear it for 2-3 hrs, and then take it off for 2-3. Then back on for the same, and then off. Etc. That way having it on gives you some relief, and off gives your muscles some relief.

I'm a little concerned with your bladder misbehaving. I hope it straightens out soon! Keep me informed on that, will you? I really DO care about ya! Thanks alot Tenderfoot! And take care. God bless. Hugs, Lee