Hi, I am also new to the forum...but I had ACDF surgery in the summer of 2011 levels C5-7. As of today, I feel a lot better than I did before the surgery. I had a permanent headache for a year w/ migraines that were so debilitating. I only get the migraines once in a while now, caused by over doing it. I have really severe shoulder spams which lead up into my neck causing the migraines. I'm not going to lie, that you need to have a high tolerance for pain for a few days. It's uncomfortable and very difficult to sleep especially laying down. I slept in a recliner for a month or so, just easier. But I promise it does get better as you heal. I went back to my full time job about 8 weeks after the surgery and also have a husband and son and they help out a great deal w/ lifting things etc. You need the support.
Now, I've been diagnosed w/ Spondylothesis and will require future surgery again, very painful, I think this is worse than my neck. Only 42 yrs old and all these problems. But I wish you luck and will try to answer any of your questions if you come back again.
Best Wishes and speedy recovery
Quote:
Originally Posted by eeyorewis
Hello, I am new to the forum. Hoping I can get some answers and fears put aside.
I will be going in for a level 2 discectomy and fusion on Oct. 19th. The pain I have been experiencing for the last 2 months has been excruciating. Finally had an MRI done and talked to a Neurosurgeon this week. Need surgery due to spinal cord being compromised. He said he would do a discectomy on c3,c4,c5,c6 and by next year I will need c2,c3 done as well. I asked why not do it now while he is in there, his response was my muscle spasm are so bad, that my neck would not handle a 3 level at this time. I am wondering what to expect during and after the surgery? I know everyone is different, but to know some experiences might help me feel less freaked out. Thanks and sorry for the long post.
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