HI everyone,

I am 2 months post surgery c5-c-7 ACDF ACCF. I had an allograft with plate and screws. I am still in a hard collar until middle of march. The surgery went well and pain is not too bad. Some neck pain and off and on shoulder pain and numbness in fingers. Recently my neck has started cracking. It is loud and I can feel it. It is not severe pain but discomfort. I am not scheduled to see the surgeon until mid March. My therapy should start next week I think. Does this sound normal or is it possibly a problem with the fusion. Not sure if I should make another appointment with the doctor or I am just being paranoid. My neck used to crack all the time, but not this loud. Of course I used to turn and stretch my neck all the time. It is only happening when I am moving maybe more than I should in the collar. Any thoughts?
Thank you
Roo

I would call your surgeon. I do hope all is well for you and your recovery continues to go smoothly.

I agree with the other post. Give your physician a call. It may not be anything to worry about, but you will feel better knowing for sure. Hope you continue to heal. ginnie

Better to check it out sooner than later. It may well be nothing untoward and your remaining unfused vertebrae doing what they need to do to support your newly fused vertebrae. If you don't ask, you won't know, and it's better for your recovery mentally and physically to have your mind at ease. All the best

As a precaution, I would get it checked out but I wouldn't lose sleep over it at this point. It sounds like normal "popping" (cavitation) of the adjacent facet joints above and below the fusion. They will increase in mobility somewhat to accommodate the lose of motion at your fusion level. I have it too.