Hi jolene,

1. What type of fusion - hardware or bone graft
2. Why do you want to do screw mobes? I am assuming Thoracic Spine right?
3. Since everything is all connected, have you considered the consequences of your treatment choices?

e.g.
a. research has shown that discs can refer pain up to 4 levels above and 4 levels below
b. Research has also shown that the target joint to be mobilised is not the only one moving during the technique with the effect of the treatment technique being measured 3 spinal levels away.
c. The erector spinae muscles go from the C/S to the pelvis - their contraction has an effect along the whole course of the muscle
d. the effect of fascia on the muscles, joints, nerves and bones is not to be ignored.
e. The T/S joints, esp the CV joints are very close to the sympathetic tract therefore you can affect visceral function.

i say the above because life (and therefore patients) can't really be boiled down to forumlae like "how long after fusion can you do screw mobs?". It is far better for you to work through logically what you want to do and why and consider the holistic consequences.

And the beauty about your situation is that you are still a student. I wish i had someone tell me that when i was studying!

Just remember, your degree is simply the ticket to commence your journey of learning...graduation is not the end but merely the start of your physio learning. Send money and learn from good educators.

Good luck!