Hi:

I had two level acdf surgery 10 days ago and believe it was successful. The constant pain and tingling in my right arm is gone and now I am dealing with the loss of motion in my neck - but I am told this is only temporary.

I start physical therapy on Monday. How long will it take until I can turn my head again? My doctor tells me that I should have no problem driving but there is a problem when I can't turn my head. Also, I am taking Tramadol for pain because I cannot get my script for Percocet filled. I was given 30 pills on the 23rd and was told by my pharmacy that I have to wait until the middle of the month to have it refilled. I am in Florida and the rules on narcotics are very strict. Has anyone else had this problem?

Thanks!

Hello and welcome to Neurotalk Support Groups,

I am so glad to hear that you already experienced a positive effect from your surgery. Having the arm pain and tingling resolve so quickly seems like a very good sign. Ten days out is not long at all so hopefully you will just keep getting better and better.

You may find some help here on questions about motor recovery.
Spinal Disorders and Back Pain

Search and FAQ features can be found at the top of every page to help you look for specific topics and answer common questions on forum usage.

I'm sure you have been able to find info online about recovery from ACDF but here is a nice booklet from John Hopkins. It has a lot of basics on being careful about posture, what to do, what to avoid, etc.
http://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/ortho...rgeryGuide.pdf

I hope that your pain resolves quickly. The various aches and pains that go with your body's adjustment to its new normal can take a while to improve, but hopefully the worst of it is over. By mid-month you may not need the percocet any longer. The regulations on opiates are strict everywhere these days so many have experienced issues with that. Of course you will want to restrict their use to as short a course as possible but if your pain isn't controlled try to get in sooner to discuss it with your doctor.

Sending thoughts of healing...

Hello and welcome, happy to see you have come to be with us, it a great place to be. We have a great number and caring fellow members here, where you have find a supportive and relaxing place. Have fun looking into the different forums. Our shoulders are here for support in many ways.

Please keep us up to date on your condition. Again welcome, looking forward to seeing you around. My thoughts and prayers are with you.

Darlene