I am 71. I fractured C6-7 in a skiing accident 10 months ago. I also had a dissection of the vertebral artery and a compression injury of the anterior shoulder. I was treated in a hard cervical collar for 4 months then had a C5-6-7 ACDF. Artificial bone matrix was used. Marked swelling lead to vocal cord paralysis and inability to swallow. I was in the hospital for an additional week post op then in a rented hospital bed sitting up for another month. Now 6 1/2 months after surgery I am fully fused. I have very weak neck and upper shoulder muscles which are tender all the time and cause headaches if I am up doing anything for more than 2-3 hours. I had several months of physical therapy with little improvement. I have started high dose ibuprofen which may be helping a little. Any advise on how long this will take or how to make some progress?

Drrcdavis

Hi drrcdavis and welcome to NeuroTalk. Here is the link to our Spinal Disorders forum...http://neurotalk.psychcentral.com/forum22.html

I'm glad you've joined us....sorry for the reason.

Hi drccdavis and Welcome to NeuroTalk. Wow, first I must say Skiing at 71!!! woohoo. I'm 52 and could not imagine doing anything that physical anymore. AND~~I might add, 71 is not old; I'm just impressed. Sorry you have had problems due to it though.

Take a look around the forums. This is an amazing place w/alot of great info and friendly members. Just jump in anywhere and join us.

Wish I could be of more help, but just wanted to welcome you.

Hi, Drcdavis! Welcome to NeuroTalk!

My heart hurts for you, I'm a former avid skier myself and I know the disappointment of leaving the sport. I hope you'll ultimately heal well enough to hit the slopes just one more time.

Hey,
Welcome to neurotalk, if you need anything please just ask, I will try and help you if I can.
Thanks and take care
Alison