[ChelKB]

I wanted to share the results of my 2nd post-op appointment today. It has been 65 days (9 1/2 weeks) since I have had an ACDF on C4-C7. Today, I was given the ok to get rid of my neck brace!! Yay!!! I hate that thing with a passion. I still have to wear my bone growth stimulator for 6 weeks but that's ok. It's not nearly as intrusive as the collar. Everything is looking good and I have now been released to physical therapy which I need. My range of motion at this point is pretty limited. It will be nice to work on that and getting more of it back. My weight lifting restriction has been increased from 5 lbs to 10-15 lbs. Not a big change but at the same time it is. I have been walking on average 15-25 miles per week (flat...no hills or inclines). I haven't been told at this point what additional exercise I can add back in but I'm assuming the physical therapist will be the one to go over those things with me. My right hand is still numb but no one seems to be concerned yet. I guess I don't know if that is permanent or not yet. I think that's it. Progress! So excited right now!!

[Leesa]

WHOOPEE!! Good for you! How are your pain levels? I'd like to know about that. On a scale of 1-10, where do you rate yourself?

Yes, physical therapy will give you your restrictions. Don't they have you wearing at least a SOFT collar? What about driving? Can you drive? What about wearing a collar when you drive? Don't you have to wear one then? Like a soft collar? I sure would.

We really appreciate your coming back and giving us an update. You don't know how many people you may have helped! Please keep giving us updates, will you? It really helps!

Take care and God bless. Hugs, Lee

[mg neck prob]

[HI Cherl,

Thanks for sharing this you sound about where i was at--- it does get better. The one thing i notice is posture after fusion is really important. I still have numbness in three fingers but it doesnt stop me-- if I sleep wrong or over do it with working on a project my right shoulder will flare up. I have no regrets either. I did have setback 18months into it because i started lifting heavier stuff --just dont do that avoid alot of bending over---- use your knees.

Im really happy to read this and your on the path of getting your life back !!

[ChelKB]

@Leesa ~ my pain levels are pretty low...on average a 2 sometimes 3. I was not given a soft collar. I have been so excited to get that darn thing off and today, my neck and head are very tired and heavy feeling. I'm sure it's because it got weaker with the cervical collar. It needs to get used to holding itself up. I have been driving since 3 weeks post-op but only around the village that I reside in. I couldn't do any highway driving but that has been lifted. I can drive unrestricted. He just told me to be careful. I'll start slowly because as I said before, my range of motion isn't very good yet. @mg neck prob - it's so nice to know that you have had a positive outcome. It really helps to stay focused, do my part and hope for the best. Also, I hope they work on posture with me at physical therapy. I'm an accountant and I constantly find my neck cranked forward at the computer. I need to really work on that!!

I will keep everyone updated and want to say thank you for being a lifeline before surgery. I was terrified. Terrified of surgery, terrified of falling or having an accident and becoming paralyzed. It was a long, dark and scary winter and it feels like I'm finally coming out of the dark. I only pray that I stay on this path.

[Leesa]

For heavens sakes, don't get rear-ended! LOL

We'll say prayers for ya, okay? God bless and we'll look forward to your updates. Hugs, Lee