Keep doing this. I had C3-C4 and C4-C5 fused 12 years ago. It was perfect with fast recovery and 12 years of great range of motion and no pain. Three months ago problems started again along my neck, upper should blade and right arm. MRI results with severe, severe, severe on three places. My doctor referred me to original neurosurgeon and I got an appointment within two weeks. Wish me luck, I will have no hesitation of getting more fusions if neurosurgeon recommends it! 10:03
I'm also lumbar fused from L3-L5 (two separate fusions), a total hip replacement and looking at ACDF(I see the surgeon tomorrow and we'll see how many levels). Not really nervous just annoyed, I was doing great and hitting the gym 3 days a week, and now it depends on how well if I slept if I get to the gym :( I should just go anyway-- Thanks for the video updates, they help A LOT!
Fused L4-L5-S1 back in 2019. Fresh out of C5-C6-C7 last month. I have no regrets thus far. Stay vertical and remember, don't die in the chair! Carry rucksacks not feelings bags. Appreciate this video
Hi Michael, thank you so much for putting your experience with ACDF out there. I am currently considering ACDF for a 1 leve fusion at c6-7. My disc is diseased and slightly bulging, I also have foraminal stenosis in the area. I started developing constant muscle spasms in the back of my neck and all kinds of strange sensations throughout my body.. my facial muscles also feel like they are spastic.. I have done PT for 6 months, but anytime I do harder more strenuous exercises my symptons immediately flare up, specifically back or shoulder exercises.. Overall, all these sensations and pain just make it very hard to enjoy life. I'm glad the surgery worked out for you and allowed you to get back to doing the things you enjoy, this gives me hope for my own outcome if I elect to have this done in the near future.
Walter, thanks for chiming in. I remember having a lot of facial numbness before my neck fusion. Foraminal stenosis is part of all my problems as well. Our symptoms have been very similar for sure. My quality of life now versus before is definitely better. It's a tough and personal decision, and everyone is a little bit different. Good luck as you process all of it and make your decision! Keep us posted...and Happy New Year!
3 weeks after C5 - C7 fusion. Had the lower back fusion also. As well as rotator cuff repairs, left and right, Thumb operation, hip, SI joint and feet trouble... 😂😂 You have no idea how I needed to see you and hear your zest for life today. Thank you.
We definitely can relate to each other. Sometimes all I can do is sit back and laugh. Other times I'm grateful it's not worse, it could be SO much worse. In any case, hang in there!!! All the best and blessed to you.
Thanks for chiming in. Oddly enough, out of nowhere, I have had neck pain for three days and some numbness in my right thumb. I think it is just the nature of what we are all dealing with.
I just had c3-c7 done 7 weeks ago. I was having issues with swallowing it's gotten better. I have issues with fatigue that comes and goes and sometimes I have problems with equilibrium. I had these problems before the surgery I thought it would be taken care of after the surgery but I know it's still early glad things are going very well with you.
3 thru 7 September 27. 1st day back to work yesterday. Still in hard collar for another month. Bone stimulator for another 10 months. Ughhh. I am also having issues with swallowing.
I am doing really well. It is not a fun surgery for sure, and you have to be patient, but my results have been great. Positive thoughts and prayers coming your way.
Input mine off for a bit due to fear, but glad I finally did it. It stinks going through it, but was definitely worth it in my case. Good luck, and please keep me posted.
Currently I am scheduled to have a double ACDF C5-C7. Also I had a double spinal fusion L3-S1 just as you have - I had that one about a decade ago. I do experience some sciatica still off and on and some muscle tears (which are horrific when they happen), but hey, I am walking, hiking. The Dr. wanted me to have my C5-C7 fused in at the same time I had my lumbar fusion - I said no thank you. So here I am some 12 years later and I am tapping out of the pain and will have a double ACDF first part of 2024. Thank you for your updates.
Thanks for chiming in with your experience. You made the right decision holding off and doing at a different time. As annoying as my dysphagia was with the ACDF, my back fusions were more painful. Good luck...keep us posted.
Had two level cervical spine fusion three days ago. So glad I found your channel. I had the same issue swallowing hours after the surgery and totally freaked out. Thank you for your confirmation that "it happens".
Yep, it's a sucky thing for sure and happens a lot. Good luck and hang in there. All you can do is be careful, be patient, and hurry and wait. I hate that I had to have the surgery, but so glad I did it. You'll get there. Keep me posted please.
My surgery is Monday morning. I got a lot of reassurance from your series here, and the most important part is the patience. I also lift, run, swim, wakeboard and many other things, so this was very helpful for me.
Glad it helped some. And good luck with it all. I could do all those things again. You'll be good too, but it's not going to be fun the next few days. You've had it by now, so hang in there! Keep me posted please
@@FusedandFit Okay,! so I just got home a little while ago. It went very well, and he even found and removed a bone spur that was impinging on the spinal cord itself. I do feel like it's already a noticeable improvement, and I can feel the difference in my right shoulder and hand now. I have no swallowing issues at all. I followed all the pre and post surgery care instructions to the letter. I'm on some pain meds, but I would say it feels more angry or sure than actually "painful." He said I don't need a collar at all, which was a nice surprise. Thanks again brother! 🙂
@@fargo007 thanks for the update mate! Just found out I need this and this is so gratifying to read. I love my sport and would be hurt to hear I couldn’t play anymore! How are you now 3 months on ?
@@zharb8263 Thanks for the note, I'm doing GREAT. Back to the gym lifting heavy with no issues.I have zero pain. ZERO. It does get like a stiff neck once in a while but that passes. Easily an acceptable trade off to not be in pain anymore. I consider myself fully healed, and I am 100% glad I did it. The lesson I learned is that there is a part of this that will feel better "right away" and another component of recovery that really does take some time to develop. I have a little stiffness at the extremes of rotating my chin L/R all the way to the shoulder. Pre-surgery that would legit have been painful. Would I do it all over again? Yessir.
Glad you’re doing well. I am 1 yr, 3 mos out from my C4-7 ACDF surgery. I am very glad I had it done as it was needed for a very long time. I also have degenerative disc disease. My one year follow-up visit with my surgeon went very well and was told that all vertebra were nearly fused. I do have the random nerve pains mostly around my shoulders, neck, & upper back areas. But the biggest issue I am having still is with swallowing. I feel like I have a constant lump in my throat. I have gone through voice therapy, had my vocal cords looked at, which are fine, and had an endoscopy done… nothing found. I am due to have a barium swallow test done. Can you shed any light on how you overcame that issue?
Good luck to your husband! It's not a fun surgery, and being patient after the fact is tough, and the strange pains and things afterward aren't fun, but I'm doing fantastic after the fact. Very happy I had mine done.
I will have acdf same place as you in 2 weeks. 2 disks are pinching my spinal cord. I have found a great spine surgeon in Chicago area. From Listening to you and others like you, it has made me feel better and now know there are many small symptoms different in everyone that I wish I knew earlier is from the cervical spine. Merry xmas.
Currently on Day 7 fusion C4-C6 and already taking 5k-10k steps a day with very little fatigue. Dysphagia is slowly getting better, but still sucks. I also have this knot in my left shoulder blade that is annoying the shit out of lol.
Thanks for sharing! I had a ACDF C5-6 back in 2018, and it progressively gotten worse over the years. Turns out, the fusion failed, and I have at least one lose screw. It majorly sucks, been in so much pain it’s been hard to function. I saw several surgeons in my area and I’m currently waiting for insurance approval/appeal for a two level disc replacement as a revision. I’m half terrified and half don’t trust the doctors., although I found one who comes highly recommended and who does not appear to be a narcissist or an over inflated ego. Trying to be positive and hopeful even with the fear. Good to hear you’ve had some luck in this area. Oh, yeah, and I blew out L45 years ago, and may lead to a fusion in my low back. Yay!
Dang, very sorry to hear about the complications. Surgeons are a tough thing to feel good about. The one who did my first fusion was considered one of the best in the world, no joke. I'll never go back to him. The one that did my second back fusion and my neck fusion was relatively unknown, but I swear by him now. In any case, good luck with all of it. Please keep us posted. All the best and blessed to you.
@@FusedandFit I had a decompression surgery in my upper thoracic spine by way of being stuck through my ribs (not a traditional procedure). He is supposed to be the best in my area at a major hospital. Turns out it didn’t provide any relief. I asked him about it and he blew it off. I went back to him thinking some of the symptoms I was having was related to this last surgery, and the dude literally said to me “shut up and listen, I’m the surgeon here”. He was right about my neck, but I’m going with someone else who is less known but has a good rep. The bigger they are, the more narcissistic they behave. Needless to say, I have developed trust issues.
I'm likely going to be having this same C5-C7 procedure in a couple of months. Definitely appreciate the most recent update! Best of luck going forward.
I had c4-c7 on October 26 and still have tingling in my hands ,and armpit comes and goes the back my neck is really sore,and hear some popping hopefully it's all part of the process. Oh and my hands and feet are always cold now,something new.
@@graceraymundo3161 I had strange things and sensations for months like that as well. I was told nerves were regenerating and to expect a lot of strange sensations, and that turned out to be the case. Occasionally, I'll still get a fantom sensation of some sort. I'm shocked how good everything is now compared to pre-surgery and the 5 or 6 months following it. Everything just eventually mellowed out.
Glad to see you are doing great after 2 years. It sure is hard to find positive videos on neck surgery. 6 years ago I had artificial disc replacement at levels c5-c6 and c6-c7. Did great until almost 2 years ago. Started having really bad neck and trap pain. Thought it was from that neck surgery or from golfing. Went and saw the neurosurgeon who did my surgery. They took xrays and said that everything related to those discs looked great. Had me do PT for about 6 weeks but that didn't help at all. Pain has been affecting my daily living to the point of I quit playing guitar, quit lifting weights, quit doing woodwork (my left arm would overreact when I'd slip using a screwdriver or doing detailed work), finally quit golfing. Still nothing has helped. He had me get a CT and MRI. I have a bulging disc at c3-c4 and a herniated disc at c4-c5 which is pushing on my spinal cord causing some balance issues and pushing on the nerve root. He ordered a selective nerve root block for C4 nerve just to confirm my symptoms matched the imaging. That did cut down my pain from a 7 to a 4. I still have neck pain and am noticing my left shoulder is getting weaker. I can't lift my arm more than horizontal from the front or side. I will be seeing him next week to discuss surgery options as well as review how the nerve block worked. Not sure what he has in mind, although it was mentioned about having ACDF surgery. Not sure how many levels and if that will also include fusing my disc replacement levels. If I hadn't had the previous surgery I would be scared about having another one. I just know that everything I've tried hasn't worked. The whole waiting to see what the plan is has been driving me nuts for the last month. I'm only 53 and not ready to give up all the hobbies I love as well as just daily things that I can't do right now.
Thanks for chiming in, and for all your information. My surgeon discussed disc replacement with me at the time he did my fusion. He does both, but for me he was worried I wouldn't have enough vertical stability and that he wanted to keep as much height as he could with my neck. I don't remember all the details but we opted for fusion. I really haven't had to give up hobbies, though I've adapted a little on some. I'm almost 53, so that's part of it...kind of always adapting here and there now. I hope you can get on top of all the discomfort and find the best solution for you. Keep me posted. And yes, all the wondering is as bad as the pain itself. Again, good luck!!
@@FusedandFit Saw my neurosurgeon yesterday. Plan is to do ADR on level c4-c5, they will call today with surgery schedule. He doesn't want to do ACDF unless he has to, says I'm still to young and would hold off on going that route unless something looks different once he gets in there. He said since I've had ADR on the 2 levels below insurance might fight against it since that would be 3 levels with ADR. He got to see how weak my shoulder is and how much atrophy I have with the 4 rotator cuff muscles. He did all the tests to make sure it wasn't actually my rotator cuff. Just from him moving my arm up and doing strength test, you'd think yesterday was full on shoulder workout at the gym...I'm that sore, and he didn't do that much...LOL. We didn't spend much time going over the procedure since I've already had this same surgery 6 years ago.
@@brianh395 thanks for the update. Sounds like you both are doing due diligence for sure. It's so frustrating going through all the steps and taking all the time. I hopes ADR for you again instead of ACDF. ACDF is fine in the end, just a longer recovery time. I'll be interested in hearing how it goes for you. Good luck!
@@FusedandFit Thank you!!! I was looking at the back of my shoulder and shoulder blade area. I can't believe how much those muscles have atrophied over the last 8 weeks. It's a little disturbing seeing it that way.
Surgery is scheduled for 1/22/24, I'm a little aggravated that I couldn't get it done this month since I've already hit my out of pocket max of $7000. Now I get to be out a total of $14000 since I can't get in until january. Oh well, it is what it is.
So glad I found this. Will be needing it done. Trying to get into a surgeon now but may need to go to Austin if I don't hear soon. Question. Did you have any numbness in your legs and if so did that go away. I have been on a walker for a couple years due to numbness and balance.
Yes, I did have numbness in my legs, partly because of back issues, but also because of neck. Yes, it went away after a while post neck fusion. Good luck!!!
Helpful to see this and hear how even a serious fall didn't displace your recent surgery. I just had ACDF C5-7 two weeks ago and am experiencing pretty extreme vertigo. How long until you were back lifting weights and do you have restrictions on exercises like behind the neck presses?
I started lifting weights at the three months mark, which felt like forever. I didn't do much at that time though. I haven't done behind the neck presses since then, but so shoulder presses, pull downs (front and back) shrugs and shoulder flies. Behind the neck feels uncomfortable so I haven't tried behind the neck presses. It's probably as much my rotator cuff issues that prevents me from wanting to try. I quit doing upright rows a couple months ago because it put a funky pressure on my neck I didn't like. Sorry to hear about the vertigo. My guess is it's related to the inflamation from surgery. I actually used to get vertigo badly, but it's almost non-existent since the surgery. Migraines are almost non-existent too. Anyway, good luck! keep me posted.
@@FusedandFit I only do behind the neck presses with a smith but after this I may stay away from them. I also don't like how upright rows hit my neck and wrists. If I can bench, flye and front mil press I'm happy. Thx.
Thanks for your videos. I’m 19 post-op C 5-6,6-7. I had an L3-4 decompression, laminectomy 3 years ago by a big medical school neurosurgeon. I had neurological complications. 2 weeks postoperative and told to call my PCP. I was terrified to have this surgery. Better surgeon and so far so good. I fell 3 days ago. Slipped and came down on my bad arm and hip. Terrified I have injured the fusion. It’s a holiday weekend and I see the doctor next week. I seem to be okay but so worried I have damaged something. Your videos were help to me prior to my surgery. My back is bad again and holding out as long as I can. Funny, I’ve had 6 knee surgeries, two being replacements. What is it about our spines and knees?
Dang...good luck with the follow up. The fall I took was pretty hard, flat on my face, and the hardware in the neck took it very well. I was worried too, but it's amazing how solid all that is. Knees and spines make little sense to me, when they decide to go, they just go. Wish I would have taken better care of both of them while in high school...I was pretty rough on them.
Do you still have any pain, weakness, or numbness around neck, shoulder or arm ? If you were pain was at 100, what was you pain after the surgery and one year after surgery ? anything you regret or new symptoms after the surgery ?
Hey Michael, I’m 32 and going for a C3/4 ACDF. Man I’m worried about if it’s the right thing to do. The disc is pinching the nerve to my shoulder and literally stopping me from lifting right arm above 90Deg. Your video has really helped me:) I’m still not 100% given how permanent the surgery is. But I can see it is the best quality of life option for me . Thanks mate!
I understand the hesitation, especially given your age. I first messed up my back at age 28 and waited 7 years to do have operated on. Has your surgeon discussed artificial disc with you at all, or just fusion? Either way, it sounds like something needs to be done. I'm actually more annoyed by my right big toe not being able to bend or flex anymore than I am about my neck fusion. The quality of life will be much better and I suspect well worth it. It sucks that the options are surgery or prolonged pain, but for me I'm glad I picked the surgery. Keep me posted, and good luck!
@@FusedandFit just fusion , I think given artificial disc needs to be replaced after 10-15 years and given my age fusion should mean only one surgery. It’s just my c3/4 all other discs are in perfect health . So did you notice any limits to your range of movement in Your neck ? And can you still play sports 2 years on, like football, bike riding , swimming etc? I assume yes! From this video . Understand these will be off the cards for a good 6-12 months . Thanks Michael
@@zharb8263 the only range of motion is still really good. I struggle to hold a phone to my ear, hands free, pressing it against my cheek with my shoulder. I can't do that. Also, looking up above me, like to see an airplane in the sky or something isn't as easy as it was, but that's about it. No big deal there. About six months after my surgery we went on a cruise and, along with one of my sons, played in a dodgeball tournament and a volleyball tournament. Would've done bball (three on three) but not enough interest so they cancelled it. My neck wasn't an issue at all. I pride myself on diving and digging in volleyball and did so. I mountain bike. I'll play flag football again this fall without any worries. I was going to start boxing again, but decided not to...that may be too rough on the neck. I ride my motorcycles again, street and dirt, but a bit more responsibly now. I swim, and have boogie boarded a bunch since as well. I'm doing all this with the back fusions as well, so I think you will be surprised and happy with what you can do again after you recover. You have to follow their rules religiously though and be very patient and not cut corners on recovery.
@@FusedandFit Thanks Michael , I'm a fairly patient person so I should be okay - Im happy to wait 12 months or more. As long as I know I can get back to those activities in time! injury was likely caused downhill MTB - so maybe like you said I'll be a little more responsible in future. Thanks for being so responsive. It looks like your channel has helped heaps of people through this journey. You should be very proud, You have made a difference :) Meeting my surgeon in 15 Minutes !
Pre neck fusion did you get any head aches also my right foot's toe feels numb I've had MRI done on my neck and my c7 and c6 came back abnormal my neck always feels stiff and while the day does further down my neck feels more tight and I feel more dizzy or my vertigo increases , is your Doctor from California?
Yes, I was getting a lot of migraines before the neck fusion. About the last six months before fusion I was getting one or two a week. I've only had four or five migraines in the two years since. I also had vertigo issues, episodes about 8-10 times a year where I had to take Meclozene, but only once in the past two years. It seems like my fusion has helped a lot with that, but it also could be a coincidence. My doctor is from Utah.
Thank you for sharing. I had same procedure. All is well. It’s been 11 days. I guess the thing I struggle with and looking for confirmation that what I’m experiencing is normal. Swallowing I have no problems. But I have pain in neck/shoulders and tingling sensation that go down mostly right arm. Pain in neck is at the base and a bit outward from there. I have my follow up December 5th. I’m maintaining positive and seeking positive feedback from those who have walked the journey. Thanks again for sharing 😊
Marguerite, thanks for adding your experience. What you are experiencing right now post-surgery seems very normal to me. The base of my neck, and spreading into the shoulder muscles, ached a lot for two or three weeks after my surgery. I had tingling come and go for a while as I recall. It takes a while for the nerves that have been impacted by all of it to feel normal again. I experienced everything you are talking about, but it all went away eventually. Stay positive and patient as you are, and keep me posted. Good luck!!
I'm 14 days post op and i'm in the same boat!I'm still having some nerve symptoms and numbness that hasn't completely gone away yet, but it's still in the early days. Hope you are doing okay!
Pain and tingling is a sign that a nerve is either impinged or inflamed. I had a C6-7 disc replacement six weeks ago and other than the first three days after the surgery with no pain, the last six weeks have been hell. I have as much pain and lack of movement in my neck as before the surgery. After an MRI that looked good, all the surgeon will say is that the nerve is inflamed and it will take time to get better. I'm completely disheartened now because he told me once he went in and freed up the nerve and replaced the disc, I would be pain free.
Had c4 c5 c6 fused 2 weeks ago. Did you happen to have any leg / foot / sciatica type issues before you got your neck done that got resolved after the procedure?
Two weeks...you are through most of the rough stuff. I had five back surgeries, two of them fusions (fused from L3-S1), so sometimes it's really hard to know how much my neck impacted it. I did have other rare issues that neck problems can cause that went away. Shoot me an email to snappmi@gmail.com and I can go into more details there. Sciatica problems are typically lower back issues, same with leg and foot, but the leg and foot for sure can be related to the neck. Sorry I'm not more helpful there.
I just have mine done 2 weeks ago from a work accident that I had one year and a half ago from c5 toc7 I still have issues with my left arm and hand not only that but my vocal cords got damaged during surgery I guess time will tell thank you for the information
My vocal cords were a bit of a mess for a few months. I don't recall if I mentioned that in any of my videos. My voice was a bit deeper for a while, and if I tried to speak or sing with a higher pitch or key, my voice would crack or not even make a sound. It seems like that took several months to get back to mostly normal. Where it's only been two weeks since your surgery you are still going to see a lot of improvement in all the areas you mentioned. These are frustrating surgeries and they take a bit of time to feel better. Good luck, and please keep us posted.
Thank you for sharing a little over a year ago. I had a cervical spine surgery. I thought everything went well. They fused C4, C5, and C6 for some reason and I don’t know why C7 was not addressed. A friend/Doctor asked me why the heck it wasn’t done I said I had no idea. He explained to me it’s like building a house without a foundation he was right. Along the way we found out my neck never fused, and it wasn’t found out through the gentleman that had done the surgery. I’m heading back in less than a month to an amazing institution with a fabulous doctor. the hardware has to be removed and redone along with now doing C7. I’m hoping everything goes as well as your experience. God bless thank you for sharing.
Wow.. sorry to hear that. My surgeon told me he would've fused #7 as well had he needed to do #6. I have a friend who played running back in the NFL and is fused in the same areas you're talking about. He's doing well with it, no disc replacement for him, all fusion. I hope for all the best for you, keep us posted please.
@@FusedandFit you and me both. Thanks for the good wishes. My surgery will be done at HSS in Manhattan. the surgeon like all of them at that hospital is an amazing guy. It just upset me a lot that the other gentleman I went to didn’t take precautions. To leave out that C7 it looked as bad as it did before my surgery makes no sense. Once You attempt to view the levels above you know you’re gonna create pressure on the next level below. It’s your foundation. Why he left it out I’ll never know. I just have to move forward at this point. Most of my pain is in my traps my triceps my rhomboids. I’m a cyclist a runner a guy that’s worked out his whole life so it’s been a rough couple of years. Thanks again for the good wishes. I will report back and let you guys know. I’m sure everything will turn out well for me. I couldn’t ask for a better team.
@@jlappin6277 I'm glad you have access to stellar surgeons, it obviously makes all the difference. On a different note, my youngest son lives in Manhatten...kind of. He's currently in Bridgeport CT and has been for a few months, but has lived in Little Neck Queens for a few months, and Harlem for six months. He's in the city often, though. Anyway, I hope you get back to all your activities! I'm just getting over a toe fusion and trying to get back into things. If I didn't mention it before, please keep me posted. Best...
thank you so much for posting! I had a level 1 c4-c5 fusion done two weeks ago and i'm only 31! First week was really rough, but it's getting better. I still get numbness in my hand sometimes only when i'm sleeping though. What symptoms did you have that made you get a neck fusion? I had myelopathy and pretty bad spinal cord compression which is why my doctor insisted i get it done.
natlove, thanks for chiming in here. I had pretty much the same symptoms. I had some pain that would come and go, but I think due to my previous collection of surgeries, fusions, injuries etc I developed a pretty high pain tolerance. That's good and bad. Mostly I had a lot of numbness in my hands. Weakness in my right hand, I couldn't open hard or even a bottle of Coke. I had other issues throughout my body as well. Surgeon was real worried that if I got in a car wreck, hit from behind, that I would be easily paralyzed. Also, if I tried to move my upper body quickly and raise my arms quickly, I couldn't do it (ping pong, boxing, etc.) and that would cause pain. All is well now though. All the best as you get feeling better!
My surgeon was worried about that as well if i got into an accident. It's good you got it taken care of and are feeling better! :) thanks for your success story!@@FusedandFit
How did u mess up your neck so bad at your age? I mean yeah my neck is WAY worse than yours lol but I'm 41 and a military veteran so it's kinda the norm for us
Good luck! You should be fine. I went on the Splash Mountain ride at Disneyland 3.5 weeks after. I shouldn't have but I did. Drove out there from Utah, about 11 hours.
So with the disc above the fusion, why cant they just do that endoscopic day surgery and nip off the bit of disc protruding before it gets really bad? Maybe ask them? Some really cool videos on YT with this endoscopic day surgery.
Yes I did, a lot. After the surgery it was spotty, would come and go, but within about 8 or 10 weeks my numbness was gone. Even now I'll get a brief bout of it now and then, or pain will return to my thumbs and index fingers, but it typically only lasts one to three days. But the numbness hangs around a little after surgery while the inflammation is there and the nerve endings regenerate. Hope this helps.
Donna, I just saw this and your other reply. Ultimately, you're not going to regret it. It's difficult and uncomfortable at first, at different degrees for everyone, and it's hard to be patient, but by the time you're healed I'm sure you won't regret it. Fusions of any kind are intimidating and frustrating. I just had my toe fused and am super annoyed already and it's only been a week and a half with four weeks left in the stupid boot. As far as your neck goes, just determine what your quality of life is now compared to what your quality of life will be according to your doctor. Good luck with it!!
So far so good! One week post op and still hving a hard time w some pain and sleeping! Hopefully as time goes it will all heal and come together! I don't hve follow up till 13th so rest rest rest
Just had the ACDF surgery C3-C4 on Dec 4th and was in the hospital for 3 days and then went into a Rehab Facility until the 18th. I probably should of had the surgery done two yrs ago when I was 1st diagnosed but had others health issues at the time and feared it could effect my Primary Progressive Multiple Sclerosis. But, after the last 2yrs the numbness and pain had gotten worse I then made myself do this surgery with some hopes of regaining some of my Mobility back. They can't say weather it will help with my drop foot, severe fatigue, or the paralysis or not because MS can cause some of the those symptoms also. I hope some of these will also be corrected,. And NO Regrets of getting the Surgery.
I have to laugh , I have had 4 back surgeries in the last 5 1/2 years , BUT with bone and cement , I have OP very bad , and had 2 foot surgeries in 2020, the worst thing I have ever done , I now have scar tissue in the ball of the foot from the 2nd surgery and it is painful daily , Now my neck is screwed up C 4/5 6/7 , herniated discs , and 4/5 the vertbre is slipped 3 MM. R arm and hand numbness. No rods and screws for me , just bone and cement , so maybe wont be as bad ,. I go back to the NS Dec 26 , and Im having a hard time commiting to this neck. Oh and I also had a L knee surg too , lol 2016.. Good grief , I do want to hear about your toe surgery , do you have scar tissues from that??? Is it ok now??
Wow, we definitely can relate to each other. My toe fusion was just five weeks ago so hard to tell yet what that will all be like. I'll have to post a video about that. Mortality is tough sometimes for sure. Good luck on the 26th! Please keep me posted.
@jackiec5334 my op was 30th Oct, felt great few days after, just niggling pain now, with time I'm sure will easewish you well on your Recovery, and Everyone else on this road to recovery.
Keep doing this. I had C3-C4 and C4-C5 fused 12 years ago. It was perfect with fast recovery and 12 years of great range of motion and no pain. Three months ago problems started again along my neck, upper should blade and right arm. MRI results with severe, severe, severe on three places. My doctor referred me to original neurosurgeon and I got an appointment within two weeks. Wish me luck, I will have no hesitation of getting more fusions if neurosurgeon recommends it!
10:03
I'm also lumbar fused from L3-L5 (two separate fusions), a total hip replacement and looking at ACDF(I see the surgeon tomorrow and we'll see how many levels). Not really nervous just annoyed, I was doing great and hitting the gym 3 days a week, and now it depends on how well if I slept if I get to the gym :( I should just go anyway-- Thanks for the video updates, they help A LOT!
Fused L4-L5-S1 back in 2019. Fresh out of C5-C6-C7 last month. I have no regrets thus far. Stay vertical and remember, don't die in the chair! Carry rucksacks not feelings bags. Appreciate this video
Great insights brother! All the best to you!
Hi Michael, thank you so much for putting your experience with ACDF out there. I am currently considering ACDF for a 1 leve fusion at c6-7. My disc is diseased and slightly bulging, I also have foraminal stenosis in the area. I started developing constant muscle spasms in the back of my neck and all kinds of strange sensations throughout my body.. my facial muscles also feel like they are spastic.. I have done PT for 6 months, but anytime I do harder more strenuous exercises my symptons immediately flare up, specifically back or shoulder exercises.. Overall, all these sensations and pain just make it very hard to enjoy life. I'm glad the surgery worked out for you and allowed you to get back to doing the things you enjoy, this gives me hope for my own outcome if I elect to have this done in the near future.
Walter, thanks for chiming in. I remember having a lot of facial numbness before my neck fusion. Foraminal stenosis is part of all my problems as well. Our symptoms have been very similar for sure. My quality of life now versus before is definitely better. It's a tough and personal decision, and everyone is a little bit different. Good luck as you process all of it and make your decision! Keep us posted...and Happy New Year!
3 weeks after C5 - C7 fusion. Had the lower back fusion also. As well as rotator cuff repairs, left and right, Thumb operation, hip, SI joint and feet trouble... 😂😂 You have no idea how I needed to see you and hear your zest for life today. Thank you.
We definitely can relate to each other. Sometimes all I can do is sit back and laugh. Other times I'm grateful it's not worse, it could be SO much worse. In any case, hang in there!!! All the best and blessed to you.
Great to see your doing good!
Glad to see your current updates
Thanks for chiming in. Oddly enough, out of nowhere, I have had neck pain for three days and some numbness in my right thumb. I think it is just the nature of what we are all dealing with.
I just had c3-c7 done 7 weeks ago. I was having issues with swallowing it's gotten better. I have issues with fatigue that comes and goes and sometimes I have problems with equilibrium. I had these problems before the surgery I thought it would be taken care of after the surgery but I know it's still early glad things are going very well with you.
3 thru 7 September 27. 1st day back to work yesterday. Still in hard collar for another month. Bone stimulator for another 10 months. Ughhh. I am also having issues with swallowing.
@@stacymulkey dang...good luck. I really believe the swallowing will improve. Mine was terrible and it did.
Thank you for taking the time to share your experience! Im 41 and I have to get my neck done. You seem to be doing well and it gives me relief.
I am doing really well. It is not a fun surgery for sure, and you have to be patient, but my results have been great. Positive thoughts and prayers coming your way.
Put mine off for 2 yrs out of fear. Now I have to soon. Going in 2 weeks. Thank you for your video
Input mine off for a bit due to fear, but glad I finally did it. It stinks going through it, but was definitely worth it in my case. Good luck, and please keep me posted.
Currently I am scheduled to have a double ACDF C5-C7. Also I had a double spinal fusion L3-S1 just as you have - I had that one about a decade ago. I do experience some sciatica still off and on and some muscle tears (which are horrific when they happen), but hey, I am walking, hiking. The Dr. wanted me to have my C5-C7 fused in at the same time I had my lumbar fusion - I said no thank you. So here I am some 12 years later and I am tapping out of the pain and will have a double ACDF first part of 2024. Thank you for your updates.
Thanks for chiming in with your experience. You made the right decision holding off and doing at a different time. As annoying as my dysphagia was with the ACDF, my back fusions were more painful. Good luck...keep us posted.
Had two level cervical spine fusion three days ago. So glad I found your channel. I had the same issue swallowing hours after the surgery and totally freaked out. Thank you for your confirmation that "it happens".
Yep, it's a sucky thing for sure and happens a lot. Good luck and hang in there. All you can do is be careful, be patient, and hurry and wait. I hate that I had to have the surgery, but so glad I did it. You'll get there. Keep me posted please.
My surgery is Monday morning. I got a lot of reassurance from your series here, and the most important part is the patience. I also lift, run, swim, wakeboard and many other things, so this was very helpful for me.
Glad it helped some. And good luck with it all. I could do all those things again. You'll be good too, but it's not going to be fun the next few days. You've had it by now, so hang in there! Keep me posted please
@@FusedandFit Okay,! so I just got home a little while ago. It went very well, and he even found and removed a bone spur that was impinging on the spinal cord itself. I do feel like it's already a noticeable improvement, and I can feel the difference in my right shoulder and hand now. I have no swallowing issues at all. I followed all the pre and post surgery care instructions to the letter. I'm on some pain meds, but I would say it feels more angry or sure than actually "painful." He said I don't need a collar at all, which was a nice surprise. Thanks again brother! 🙂
@@fargo007 thanks for the update mate!
Just found out I need this and this is so gratifying to read.
I love my sport and would be hurt to hear I couldn’t play anymore!
How are you now 3 months on ?
@@zharb8263 Thanks for the note, I'm doing GREAT. Back to the gym lifting heavy with no issues.I have zero pain. ZERO. It does get like a stiff neck once in a while but that passes. Easily an acceptable trade off to not be in pain anymore. I consider myself fully healed, and I am 100% glad I did it. The lesson I learned is that there is a part of this that will feel better "right away" and another component of recovery that really does take some time to develop. I have a little stiffness at the extremes of rotating my chin L/R all the way to the shoulder. Pre-surgery that would legit have been painful. Would I do it all over again? Yessir.
Glad you’re doing well. I am 1 yr, 3 mos out from my C4-7 ACDF surgery. I am very glad I had it done as it was needed for a very long time. I also have degenerative disc disease. My one year follow-up visit with my surgeon went very well and was told that all vertebra were nearly fused. I do have the random nerve pains mostly around my shoulders, neck, & upper back areas. But the biggest issue I am having still is with swallowing. I feel like I have a constant lump in my throat. I have gone through voice therapy, had my vocal cords looked at, which are fine, and had an endoscopy done… nothing found. I am due to have a barium swallow test done. Can you shed any light on how you overcame that issue?
Thanks for the update. Husband just found out yesterday he will be having this surgery. Just looking for information on what to expect
Good luck to your husband! It's not a fun surgery, and being patient after the fact is tough, and the strange pains and things afterward aren't fun, but I'm doing fantastic after the fact. Very happy I had mine done.
I will have acdf same place as you in 2 weeks. 2 disks are pinching my spinal cord. I have found a great spine surgeon in Chicago area. From Listening to you and others like you, it has made me feel better and now know there are many small symptoms different in everyone that I wish I knew earlier is from the cervical spine. Merry xmas.
Good luck to you! Keep us posted on how it goes. All the best and blessed.
Will do!
Currently on Day 7 fusion C4-C6 and already taking 5k-10k steps a day with very little fatigue. Dysphagia is slowly getting better, but still sucks. I also have this knot in my left shoulder blade that is annoying the shit out of lol.
It all sounds like textbook post-op. Nice work on all the steps...keep that up for sure!
Most definitely. This is surgery number 10 for me. 4 on each foot ankle, shoulder, now neck.
Thanks for sharing! I had a ACDF C5-6 back in 2018, and it progressively gotten worse over the years. Turns out, the fusion failed, and I have at least one lose screw. It majorly sucks, been in so much pain it’s been hard to function. I saw several surgeons in my area and I’m currently waiting for insurance approval/appeal for a two level disc replacement as a revision. I’m half terrified and half don’t trust the doctors., although I found one who comes highly recommended and who does not appear to be a narcissist or an over inflated ego. Trying to be positive and hopeful even with the fear. Good to hear you’ve had some luck in this area. Oh, yeah, and I blew out L45 years ago, and may lead to a fusion in my low back. Yay!
Dang, very sorry to hear about the complications. Surgeons are a tough thing to feel good about. The one who did my first fusion was considered one of the best in the world, no joke. I'll never go back to him. The one that did my second back fusion and my neck fusion was relatively unknown, but I swear by him now. In any case, good luck with all of it. Please keep us posted. All the best and blessed to you.
@@FusedandFit I had a decompression surgery in my upper thoracic spine by way of being stuck through my ribs (not a traditional procedure). He is supposed to be the best in my area at a major hospital. Turns out it didn’t provide any relief. I asked him about it and he blew it off. I went back to him thinking some of the symptoms I was having was related to this last surgery, and the dude literally said to me “shut up and listen, I’m the surgeon here”. He was right about my neck, but I’m going with someone else who is less known but has a good rep. The bigger they are, the more narcissistic they behave. Needless to say, I have developed trust issues.
Glad I saw this video. I too am having a low quality of life because of my neck c1-c2.
I know mine has improved greatly. Everyone has a different experience and results. Good luck and please keep us posted.
You look great brother
Trying to get back there...thanks!
I'm likely going to be having this same C5-C7 procedure in a couple of months. Definitely appreciate the most recent update! Best of luck going forward.
Good luck brother...keep me posted!
@@FusedandFit For sure. Appreciate you.
I had c4-c7 on October 26 and still have tingling in my hands ,and armpit comes and goes the back my neck is really sore,and hear some popping hopefully it's all part of the process. Oh and my hands and feet are always cold now,something new.
@@graceraymundo3161 wow. Hopefully that will subside. Maybe the surgeon can give you more information on your next follow up? Best of luck!
@@graceraymundo3161 I had strange things and sensations for months like that as well. I was told nerves were regenerating and to expect a lot of strange sensations, and that turned out to be the case. Occasionally, I'll still get a fantom sensation of some sort. I'm shocked how good everything is now compared to pre-surgery and the 5 or 6 months following it. Everything just eventually mellowed out.
Glad to see you are doing great after 2 years. It sure is hard to find positive videos on neck surgery. 6 years ago I had artificial disc replacement at levels c5-c6 and c6-c7. Did great until almost 2 years ago. Started having really bad neck and trap pain. Thought it was from that neck surgery or from golfing. Went and saw the neurosurgeon who did my surgery. They took xrays and said that everything related to those discs looked great. Had me do PT for about 6 weeks but that didn't help at all. Pain has been affecting my daily living to the point of I quit playing guitar, quit lifting weights, quit doing woodwork (my left arm would overreact when I'd slip using a screwdriver or doing detailed work), finally quit golfing. Still nothing has helped. He had me get a CT and MRI. I have a bulging disc at c3-c4 and a herniated disc at c4-c5 which is pushing on my spinal cord causing some balance issues and pushing on the nerve root. He ordered a selective nerve root block for C4 nerve just to confirm my symptoms matched the imaging. That did cut down my pain from a 7 to a 4. I still have neck pain and am noticing my left shoulder is getting weaker. I can't lift my arm more than horizontal from the front or side. I will be seeing him next week to discuss surgery options as well as review how the nerve block worked. Not sure what he has in mind, although it was mentioned about having ACDF surgery. Not sure how many levels and if that will also include fusing my disc replacement levels. If I hadn't had the previous surgery I would be scared about having another one. I just know that everything I've tried hasn't worked. The whole waiting to see what the plan is has been driving me nuts for the last month. I'm only 53 and not ready to give up all the hobbies I love as well as just daily things that I can't do right now.
Thanks for chiming in, and for all your information. My surgeon discussed disc replacement with me at the time he did my fusion. He does both, but for me he was worried I wouldn't have enough vertical stability and that he wanted to keep as much height as he could with my neck. I don't remember all the details but we opted for fusion. I really haven't had to give up hobbies, though I've adapted a little on some. I'm almost 53, so that's part of it...kind of always adapting here and there now. I hope you can get on top of all the discomfort and find the best solution for you. Keep me posted. And yes, all the wondering is as bad as the pain itself. Again, good luck!!
@@FusedandFit Saw my neurosurgeon yesterday. Plan is to do ADR on level c4-c5, they will call today with surgery schedule. He doesn't want to do ACDF unless he has to, says I'm still to young and would hold off on going that route unless something looks different once he gets in there. He said since I've had ADR on the 2 levels below insurance might fight against it since that would be 3 levels with ADR. He got to see how weak my shoulder is and how much atrophy I have with the 4 rotator cuff muscles. He did all the tests to make sure it wasn't actually my rotator cuff. Just from him moving my arm up and doing strength test, you'd think yesterday was full on shoulder workout at the gym...I'm that sore, and he didn't do that much...LOL. We didn't spend much time going over the procedure since I've already had this same surgery 6 years ago.
@@brianh395 thanks for the update. Sounds like you both are doing due diligence for sure. It's so frustrating going through all the steps and taking all the time. I hopes ADR for you again instead of ACDF. ACDF is fine in the end, just a longer recovery time. I'll be interested in hearing how it goes for you. Good luck!
@@FusedandFit Thank you!!! I was looking at the back of my shoulder and shoulder blade area. I can't believe how much those muscles have atrophied over the last 8 weeks. It's a little disturbing seeing it that way.
Surgery is scheduled for 1/22/24, I'm a little aggravated that I couldn't get it done this month since I've already hit my out of pocket max of $7000. Now I get to be out a total of $14000 since I can't get in until january. Oh well, it is what it is.
So glad I found this. Will be needing it done. Trying to get into a surgeon now but may need to go to Austin if I don't hear soon. Question. Did you have any numbness in your legs and if so did that go away. I have been on a walker for a couple years due to numbness and balance.
Yes, I did have numbness in my legs, partly because of back issues, but also because of neck. Yes, it went away after a while post neck fusion. Good luck!!!
Keep it going!
Will do for a bit...thx.
Helpful to see this and hear how even a serious fall didn't displace your recent surgery. I just had ACDF C5-7 two weeks ago and am experiencing pretty extreme vertigo. How long until you were back lifting weights and do you have restrictions on exercises like behind the neck presses?
I started lifting weights at the three months mark, which felt like forever. I didn't do much at that time though. I haven't done behind the neck presses since then, but so shoulder presses, pull downs (front and back) shrugs and shoulder flies. Behind the neck feels uncomfortable so I haven't tried behind the neck presses. It's probably as much my rotator cuff issues that prevents me from wanting to try. I quit doing upright rows a couple months ago because it put a funky pressure on my neck I didn't like.
Sorry to hear about the vertigo. My guess is it's related to the inflamation from surgery. I actually used to get vertigo badly, but it's almost non-existent since the surgery. Migraines are almost non-existent too. Anyway, good luck! keep me posted.
@@FusedandFit I only do behind the neck presses with a smith but after this I may stay away from them. I also don't like how upright rows hit my neck and wrists. If I can bench, flye and front mil press I'm happy. Thx.
Thanks for your videos. I’m 19 post-op C 5-6,6-7. I had an L3-4 decompression, laminectomy 3 years ago by a big medical school neurosurgeon. I had neurological complications. 2 weeks postoperative and told to call my PCP. I was terrified to have this surgery. Better surgeon and so far so good. I fell 3 days ago. Slipped and came down on my bad arm and hip. Terrified I have injured the fusion. It’s a holiday weekend and I see the doctor next week. I seem to be okay but so worried I have damaged something. Your videos were help to me prior to my surgery. My back is bad again and holding out as long as I can. Funny, I’ve had 6 knee surgeries, two being replacements. What is it about our spines and knees?
Dang...good luck with the follow up. The fall I took was pretty hard, flat on my face, and the hardware in the neck took it very well. I was worried too, but it's amazing how solid all that is. Knees and spines make little sense to me, when they decide to go, they just go. Wish I would have taken better care of both of them while in high school...I was pretty rough on them.
Do you still have any pain, weakness, or numbness around neck, shoulder or arm ? If you were pain was at 100, what was you pain after the surgery and one year after surgery ? anything you regret or new symptoms after the surgery ?
Hey Michael, I’m 32 and going for a C3/4 ACDF. Man I’m worried about if it’s the right thing to do. The disc is pinching the nerve to my shoulder and literally stopping me from lifting right arm above 90Deg.
Your video has really helped me:)
I’m still not 100% given how permanent the surgery is.
But I can see it is the best quality of life option for me .
Thanks mate!
I understand the hesitation, especially given your age. I first messed up my back at age 28 and waited 7 years to do have operated on. Has your surgeon discussed artificial disc with you at all, or just fusion? Either way, it sounds like something needs to be done. I'm actually more annoyed by my right big toe not being able to bend or flex anymore than I am about my neck fusion. The quality of life will be much better and I suspect well worth it. It sucks that the options are surgery or prolonged pain, but for me I'm glad I picked the surgery. Keep me posted, and good luck!
@@FusedandFit just fusion , I think given artificial disc needs to be replaced after 10-15 years and given my age fusion should mean only one surgery.
It’s just my c3/4 all other discs are in perfect health .
So did you notice any limits to your range of movement in Your neck ?
And can you still play sports 2 years on, like football, bike riding , swimming etc?
I assume yes! From this video .
Understand these will be off the cards for a good 6-12 months .
Thanks Michael
@@zharb8263 the only range of motion is still really good. I struggle to hold a phone to my ear, hands free, pressing it against my cheek with my shoulder. I can't do that. Also, looking up above me, like to see an airplane in the sky or something isn't as easy as it was, but that's about it. No big deal there. About six months after my surgery we went on a cruise and, along with one of my sons, played in a dodgeball tournament and a volleyball tournament. Would've done bball (three on three) but not enough interest so they cancelled it. My neck wasn't an issue at all. I pride myself on diving and digging in volleyball and did so. I mountain bike. I'll play flag football again this fall without any worries. I was going to start boxing again, but decided not to...that may be too rough on the neck. I ride my motorcycles again, street and dirt, but a bit more responsibly now. I swim, and have boogie boarded a bunch since as well. I'm doing all this with the back fusions as well, so I think you will be surprised and happy with what you can do again after you recover. You have to follow their rules religiously though and be very patient and not cut corners on recovery.
@@FusedandFit Thanks Michael , I'm a fairly patient person so I should be okay - Im happy to wait 12 months or more. As long as I know I can get back to those activities in time!
injury was likely caused downhill MTB - so maybe like you said I'll be a little more responsible in future.
Thanks for being so responsive. It looks like your channel has helped heaps of people through this journey.
You should be very proud, You have made a difference :)
Meeting my surgeon in 15 Minutes !
Pre neck fusion did you get any head aches also my right foot's toe feels numb I've had MRI done on my neck and my c7 and c6 came back abnormal my neck always feels stiff and while the day does further down my neck feels more tight and I feel more dizzy or my vertigo increases , is your Doctor from California?
Yes, I was getting a lot of migraines before the neck fusion. About the last six months before fusion I was getting one or two a week. I've only had four or five migraines in the two years since. I also had vertigo issues, episodes about 8-10 times a year where I had to take Meclozene, but only once in the past two years. It seems like my fusion has helped a lot with that, but it also could be a coincidence. My doctor is from Utah.
Thank you for sharing. I had same procedure. All is well. It’s been 11 days. I guess the thing I struggle with and looking for confirmation that what I’m experiencing is normal. Swallowing I have no problems. But I have pain in neck/shoulders and tingling sensation that go down mostly right arm. Pain in neck is at the base and a bit outward from there. I have my follow up December 5th. I’m maintaining positive and seeking positive feedback from those who have walked the journey. Thanks again for sharing 😊
Marguerite, thanks for adding your experience. What you are experiencing right now post-surgery seems very normal to me. The base of my neck, and spreading into the shoulder muscles, ached a lot for two or three weeks after my surgery. I had tingling come and go for a while as I recall. It takes a while for the nerves that have been impacted by all of it to feel normal again. I experienced everything you are talking about, but it all went away eventually. Stay positive and patient as you are, and keep me posted. Good luck!!
I'm 14 days post op and i'm in the same boat!I'm still having some nerve symptoms and numbness that hasn't completely gone away yet, but it's still in the early days. Hope you are doing okay!
@@natlove2099 Good luck. It will all improve for sure. Feels like all clocks stop when you're waiting though. Hang in there!
thanks so much for the encouragement. and yessss the clock stands still waiting..ugh haha @@FusedandFit
Pain and tingling is a sign that a nerve is either impinged or inflamed. I had a C6-7 disc replacement six weeks ago and other than the first three days after the surgery with no pain, the last six weeks have been hell. I have as much pain and lack of movement in my neck as before the surgery. After an MRI that looked good, all the surgeon will say is that the nerve is inflamed and it will take time to get better. I'm completely disheartened now because he told me once he went in and freed up the nerve and replaced the disc, I would be pain free.
Had c4 c5 c6 fused 2 weeks ago. Did you happen to have any leg / foot / sciatica type issues before you got your neck done that got resolved after the procedure?
Two weeks...you are through most of the rough stuff. I had five back surgeries, two of them fusions (fused from L3-S1), so sometimes it's really hard to know how much my neck impacted it. I did have other rare issues that neck problems can cause that went away. Shoot me an email to snappmi@gmail.com and I can go into more details there. Sciatica problems are typically lower back issues, same with leg and foot, but the leg and foot for sure can be related to the neck. Sorry I'm not more helpful there.
I just have mine done 2 weeks ago from a work accident that I had one year and a half ago from c5 toc7 I still have issues with my left arm and hand not only that but my vocal cords got damaged during surgery I guess time will tell thank you for the information
My vocal cords were a bit of a mess for a few months. I don't recall if I mentioned that in any of my videos. My voice was a bit deeper for a while, and if I tried to speak or sing with a higher pitch or key, my voice would crack or not even make a sound. It seems like that took several months to get back to mostly normal. Where it's only been two weeks since your surgery you are still going to see a lot of improvement in all the areas you mentioned. These are frustrating surgeries and they take a bit of time to feel better. Good luck, and please keep us posted.
@FusedandFit thank you brother God bless 🙌
Thank you for sharing a little over a year ago. I had a cervical spine surgery. I thought everything went well. They fused C4, C5, and C6 for some reason and I don’t know why C7 was not addressed. A friend/Doctor asked me why the heck it wasn’t done I said I had no idea. He explained to me it’s like building a house without a foundation he was right. Along the way we found out my neck never fused, and it wasn’t found out through the gentleman that had done the surgery. I’m heading back in less than a month to an amazing institution with a fabulous doctor. the hardware has to be removed and redone along with now doing C7. I’m hoping everything goes as well as your experience. God bless thank you for sharing.
Wow.. sorry to hear that. My surgeon told me he would've fused #7 as well had he needed to do #6. I have a friend who played running back in the NFL and is fused in the same areas you're talking about. He's doing well with it, no disc replacement for him, all fusion. I hope for all the best for you, keep us posted please.
@@FusedandFit you and me both. Thanks for the good wishes. My surgery will be done at HSS in Manhattan. the surgeon like all of them at that hospital is an amazing guy. It just upset me a lot that the other gentleman I went to didn’t take precautions. To leave out that C7 it looked as bad as it did before my surgery makes no sense. Once You attempt to view the levels above you know you’re gonna create pressure on the next level below. It’s your foundation. Why he left it out I’ll never know. I just have to move forward at this point. Most of my pain is in my traps my triceps my rhomboids. I’m a cyclist a runner a guy that’s worked out his whole life so it’s been a rough couple of years. Thanks again for the good wishes. I will report back and let you guys know. I’m sure everything will turn out well for me. I couldn’t ask for a better team.
@@jlappin6277 I'm glad you have access to stellar surgeons, it obviously makes all the difference. On a different note, my youngest son lives in Manhatten...kind of. He's currently in Bridgeport CT and has been for a few months, but has lived in Little Neck Queens for a few months, and Harlem for six months. He's in the city often, though. Anyway, I hope you get back to all your activities! I'm just getting over a toe fusion and trying to get back into things. If I didn't mention it before, please keep me posted. Best...
Name of your surgeon at HSS?
@@jlappin6277 name the name of your surgeon is HSS? Thanks
thank you so much for posting! I had a level 1 c4-c5 fusion done two weeks ago and i'm only 31! First week was really rough, but it's getting better. I still get numbness in my hand sometimes only when i'm sleeping though. What symptoms did you have that made you get a neck fusion? I had myelopathy and pretty bad spinal cord compression which is why my doctor insisted i get it done.
natlove, thanks for chiming in here. I had pretty much the same symptoms. I had some pain that would come and go, but I think due to my previous collection of surgeries, fusions, injuries etc I developed a pretty high pain tolerance. That's good and bad. Mostly I had a lot of numbness in my hands. Weakness in my right hand, I couldn't open hard or even a bottle of Coke. I had other issues throughout my body as well. Surgeon was real worried that if I got in a car wreck, hit from behind, that I would be easily paralyzed. Also, if I tried to move my upper body quickly and raise my arms quickly, I couldn't do it (ping pong, boxing, etc.) and that would cause pain. All is well now though. All the best as you get feeling better!
My surgeon was worried about that as well if i got into an accident. It's good you got it taken care of and are feeling better! :) thanks for your success story!@@FusedandFit
How did u mess up your neck so bad at your age? I mean yeah my neck is WAY worse than yours lol but I'm 41 and a military veteran so it's kinda the norm for us
chiropractor @@imveryhungry112
I’m 3 days from having my c5-c7 done, hope I’m good in 4 weeks to take a 5hr flight ..
Good luck! You should be fine. I went on the Splash Mountain ride at Disneyland 3.5 weeks after. I shouldn't have but I did. Drove out there from Utah, about 11 hours.
So with the disc above the fusion, why cant they just do that endoscopic day surgery and nip off the bit of disc protruding before it gets really bad? Maybe ask them? Some really cool videos on YT with this endoscopic day surgery.
They can. Fortunately it has improved, so not an issue presently.
How is yalls mobility after the acdf? This is what has kept me from this procedure to this point.
Mobility is great. Not perfect, but most of the time hardly noticeable.
@@FusedandFit thank you for the reply. My problem is c3-c7 with several problems including injury from the past
Did you have arm and hand numbness before the surgery? If yes, how long after the surgery did the it go away?
Yes I did, a lot. After the surgery it was spotty, would come and go, but within about 8 or 10 weeks my numbness was gone. Even now I'll get a brief bout of it now and then, or pain will return to my thumbs and index fingers, but it typically only lasts one to three days. But the numbness hangs around a little after surgery while the inflammation is there and the nerve endings regenerate. Hope this helps.
@@FusedandFit thanks so very much- much appreciated
Mine is coming up in a few days! I hope im not going to regret mine! 😢
Donna, I just saw this and your other reply. Ultimately, you're not going to regret it. It's difficult and uncomfortable at first, at different degrees for everyone, and it's hard to be patient, but by the time you're healed I'm sure you won't regret it. Fusions of any kind are intimidating and frustrating. I just had my toe fused and am super annoyed already and it's only been a week and a half with four weeks left in the stupid boot. As far as your neck goes, just determine what your quality of life is now compared to what your quality of life will be according to your doctor. Good luck with it!!
Please keep us informed
So far so good! One week post op and still hving a hard time w some pain and sleeping! Hopefully as time goes it will all heal and come together! I don't hve follow up till 13th so rest rest rest
@@donnaoja8879 healing thoughts and prayers coming your way!
Ty soo much
You're falling apart, guy. 😂 Hope that all is going well... Stay in one piece.
Feels that way sometimes for sure. I just keep getting bolted back together. I'm almost brand new.
@@FusedandFit😂 One piece at a time. Hope you got the extended warranty this time!
Just had the ACDF surgery C3-C4 on Dec 4th and was in the hospital for 3 days and then went into a Rehab Facility until the 18th. I probably should of had the surgery done two yrs ago when I was 1st diagnosed but had others health issues at the time and feared it could effect my Primary Progressive Multiple Sclerosis.
But, after the last 2yrs the numbness and pain had gotten worse I then made myself do this surgery with some hopes of regaining some of my Mobility back.
They can't say weather it will help with my drop foot, severe fatigue, or the paralysis or not because MS can cause some of the those symptoms also. I hope some of these will also be corrected,. And NO Regrets of getting the Surgery.
Wow, thanks for chiming in...what a battle. All the best and blessed to as we hope for stellar results for you. Take care of yourself!
How are you now?
I have to laugh , I have had 4 back surgeries in the last 5 1/2 years , BUT with bone and cement , I have OP very bad , and had 2 foot surgeries in 2020, the worst thing I have ever done , I now have scar tissue in the ball of the foot from the 2nd surgery and it is painful daily , Now my neck is screwed up C 4/5 6/7 , herniated discs , and 4/5 the vertbre is slipped 3 MM. R arm and hand numbness. No rods and screws for me , just bone and cement , so maybe wont be as bad ,. I go back to the NS Dec 26 , and Im having a hard time commiting to this neck. Oh and I also had a L knee surg too , lol 2016.. Good grief , I do want to hear about your toe surgery , do you have scar tissues from that??? Is it ok now??
Wow, we definitely can relate to each other. My toe fusion was just five weeks ago so hard to tell yet what that will all be like. I'll have to post a video about that. Mortality is tough sometimes for sure. Good luck on the 26th! Please keep me posted.
❤PR😊
I'm 5 weeks post op all is well same c5 c6 c6 c7
@jackiec5334 my op was 30th Oct, felt great few days after, just niggling pain now, with time I'm sure will easewish you well on your Recovery, and Everyone else on this road to recovery.
Jackie, thanks for chiming in. So glad to hear all is going well. Keep taking care of it and it will continue that way. Best...
@@bettyboo1519 hope things keep trending positively for you...take care!
@@FusedandFit Thank you😊You take care.
Don't fuse, go to Germany get ADR with lp-esp or cp-esp, Germans are the best in the world!! I did!! 🇩🇪
Most people can't fly to Germany and have surgery and their health insurance plans wouldn't pay for it anyway.