It has been 3.5 months since my cervical fusion of C4-5, C5-6 plus plates and screws. Woke up from surgery with my left deltoid and Lt shoulder completely paralyzed. Arm was normal before. Had surgery to stabilized my neck so this would never happen. Was never informed this was a possibility.
Since surgery I have been in intense PT. After doing 100's of exercises every day, my arm is about 70% improved. Can now raise my arm 60% up towards my head. Arm still very weak. Can not hold much weight.
This has thrown me emotionally and mentally. I had a job in nursing when this all started. Right now I don't know if I will be able to return.
Still have nerve pain in Lt upper arm, especially when I try to cut gabapentin back.
Today was my last day of going to PT. Will still have to do many exercises at home, trying to get my arm back. There no guarantees.
Since Sept I have talked to many Dr's and they have never heard of this.
It does not happen often.
I feel it will take several more months of PT at home to get my arm back if possible. Very discouraging.
So happy I can read other people who had this surgery.