NeuroTalk Support Groups - View Single Post - Acdf c5-6 c6-7

frenchfri1003 · 01-10-2011, 11:23 PM

I realize that being almost 5 weeks post surgery (Thursday) is early, but I have made so much progress. The first 6 days were horrible until I had the steroids. Then I made so much progress for the next 5 days. I do not have as many muscle spasms as I did earlier. My surgeon is quite liberal. I only wore a hard collar for 2 days and then a soft collar. Now I only wear the soft collar if I feel my neck is tired, sleeping, in a car or taking a walk outside. The swallowing is much better.

I still drink a lot of water when eating certain foods like chicken or bread products. Haven't had red meat, a sandwich or a burger yet. But I can live with that for now. I don't want to wait a year to feel like myself. I hope to be fused before that. I have to wear a bone stimulator 4 hours a day which is suppose to help you fuse within 6 months. I'm hopeful. I had a 2 week check up in the office because I didn't want to wait any longer. They were very accommodating.

I have called my surgeon a few times and spoken to them. They have said any time I feel I want to come in, I can. One of the reasons I choose this surgeon was because he actually listened to what I had to say and was willing to work with me, plus he had an outstanding reputation. I'm a teacher and I am concerned about being bumped into by the kids (4th grade). But I am a bit of a klutz and I am more concerned that I will bump into a desk while walking around the room. I am also concerned with the amount of time I will need to look down at books and kids work.

I also have limited rotation and flexibility. Did your friend say how long it took him to be able to turn to the right and left and feel comfortable to drive. Currently I drive within 2 miles of my house to go to the supermarket. Any farther I let my son drive. Thanks for your insight. Gail

[/COLOR]