Originally Posted by mg neck prob

HiCocoa;

I had acdf in 2010 c4-c7--i went parlyzed on right before surgery and was is pain 24/7 I never slept before surgery --morphine wouldnt touch it. Post surgery I was in pain but for me it was more tolerable pain. Im not sure if thats because my pre-surgery pain was mind blowing. I also had bone growth stimulator it will really aid in helping u achieve a solid fusion. I was off work i think 4 months --and when i went back I was exhaused just from the drive in --this surgery takes a huge toll on your energy and your body. Im the healing stage my traps and back of neck and shoulder hurt and were so tight --it does hurt. Are you in any kind of collar?? Because it holds the weight of our neck thats all those muscle become tight. Your surgeon may suggest P.T once your showing signs of fusing. I know u wouldnt be fused yet-- take up to 6months usually even longer. The x-rays didnt seem to concern him which is a good sign so maybe your suppose to be where your at as far as healing at this time. I know this sounds lame but the nerves do strange thing the DR cant even explain during healing. I will stress this ---what u been thru is traumatic and you need to try to relax your mind and body as much as possible. Dont push trying to go back to work if your not ready. When your home be mindful of your posture its so important --even out this long if I lay wrong or bend I still get nasty flare ups. It will improve --u need more time. Best of luck to you !!