ACDF SURGERY: almost 2yr post ACDF SURGERY C4-C7 Failed fusion Kim wright
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- Опубліковано 19 чер 2024
- Pictures !!!
I had C4-C7.. IDK why I keep saying C3.. I think I get tongue tied w 3 levels
Also- I keep messing up my words 😆 WHY DO I REPEAT MYSELF SO MUCH !!! LOL
I had C4-C7 (3 levels)
(but the disk above does need to have some work done, as well as the disks below my fusion as well as a spot in lumbar)
#failedfusion
#acdf
#cervicalpain
I had a doctor botch my first procedure . I have issues getting through daily routines. Lost bladder function. Cervical issues are serious because it controls everything down. . My heart goes out to anyone enduring this type of injury because it's serious.
omg. yes. I am sorry for your experience. Are you finding any relief?
My, neck hurt myh# and my hands hurt and I feel bad everyday I just don't understand play my bladder I can't hold it too long
I have ankylosis spondylitis and DISH all the way from L5 to C6. I'm terrified. Your attitude is refreshing. People freak when I tell them pain is my friend.
I've watched A LOT of these type videos and YOU, Ms. Wright, are the most fun and entertaining of the hosts, and I'm not trying to make lite of your situation.
aww thank you :)
Kim I have been following you since I had my ACDF in June 2021
You never cease to amaze me with your confidence 😊
and you are indeed BEAUTIFUL ❤
Bless your heart ♥ thankyou for making this video,it's the first of yours I've watched. Your journey is very emotional to hear but your strength of character really shines. Wishing you all the best 💓 I can really resonate with you in the things you express personally and I'm having the same levels done too. Thankyou for sharing your reflections on things you would have done differently, you have definitely helped others to heal well. I've been just trying to 'exist' since 2018 and when offered the surgery my first thoughts were that I was going to be fixed! I know now that I need to put in the work (and rest) to heal well xxx
Hello. Thank you for your kindness. I'd love to hear if you've had any improvements.
Im sorry, i know how you feel. I e needed the surgery for a few years but i went to pain management and he told me " your neck us so bad that one small Mishap like a fall could kill you!" I couldn't have the surgery at that time due to a blood disorder. I asked him what can we do until i can have the surgery and he said " i guess youll just have to live with it!" My pcp said " I know you are in pain. I see it in your scans but we just don't write!" Then the surgeon tells me he doesn't write until he does surgery, that was some months back. I can't deal with the pain much longer so I call the surgeon yesterday and left a message and then today and actually got through to somebody and probably sounded like an addict begging for something for pain! These doctors take an oath to do no harm but when they can very clearly see how bad someone's situation is but still refuses to write for pain medication. Something just isn't right. They are harming!! I can barely lift a cup of water, dress myself or wipe my own bum 😭💔 when I spoke with a surgeon last he told me his surgeries were booked out until June. I don't know how much longer I can tolerate this pain. I'm alone and have to do everything that needs to be done for myself so a lot of things just simply don't get done! I don't even know why I'm telling you this I guess. Just to say I'm sorry you're going through everything that you've been through and then there's more to come. Doesn't seem very fair does it? I'm sorry!
that is terrible.. ugh i really hope you find what works for you
I’m sorry to hear about your set back. I just had ACDF a week ago 2 level fusion - C4 - 5 through C5 -6, but I think they missed C6 - 7 because the pain associated with that level is still very active. I hate to think I will need another surgery, but I will do it. So believe me when I say that I feel your pain. Also thank you for reminding me to limit myself physically. I tend to forget that I am in the healing process. Definitely continue the content. You have an excellent flow and such a positive vibe. Stay strong, much love and know that we will make a great recovery.
I am sorry I missed this. That is a bizarre story - how do you find out if it was missed?? it's like never ending .. I hope you get some relief
I'm sorry to hear you're still having ongoing issues with pain Kim. Your positive attitude though it all is inspiring. I'm in recovery myself from alcohol, and there's a saying in AA that your higher power doesn't give you more than you can handle. Sorry I don't mean to sound "preachy", but it's helped me in the past get through some rough times.
Not preachy. I always appreciate kind words of encouragement. Thank you
I am so very sorry to hear this I had this several for two levels 6 months ago. I know all of us who have had this know we have chances the surgery will not take and we might need further surgery. You were so inspiring when I had to get this done. I will send the best thoughts your way. I am incredibly sorry to hear this.
Oh Kim!!🙏🏼 I am three weeks post-op. Your story was one of the first I started watching through. (Jersey girl here) I’m so sorry!!! I pray you find relief! Thank you for being so transparent with us! I appreciate the “warnings”! It’s so hard to not be independent and do everything ourselves! Also, thank you so much for the reminder to take care of ourselves! Sending much love your way!🧚🏽♂️
Still ok?
@@KimWright Hi Kim!! I drove for the first time today🤗 I definitely don’t have the pain where I used to…but there is some new pain🤔 I’m guessing and hoping it’s still muscles and tendons getting used to my “ reset”. Unfortunately though they have me seeing a bunch of other doctors because of blood work that came back questionable from my pre-op. I’m just coming to terms with some new diagnoses ( mixed connective tissue disorder, psoriatic arthritis, and lupus).🤦🏻♀️ Guess it’s good to know now, so I can make some life changes, and know that it’s not ALL IN MY HEAD! Hope you are doing well and surviving this wonderful heat wave!!🔥🔥🔥
Please keep us posted on how you are doing! If you try anything else to prolong another surgery. ( pt, yoga, natural remedies, etc.) Sending positive vibes your way!🧚🏽♂️
@@flightlessfairy2281 hello. I totally understand the weird glitching sensation in the body and trying to stay out of your head. I need to be more consistent with my physical therapy exercises. Unfortunately I did have to restart some of my pain meds especially to sleep. But otherwise I’m doing OK. I am just excepting my new norm for now. I would definitely love to learn more about these diagnoses that they’re testing you for or possibly diagnosed you with. I don’t really know what they entail and sometimes it’s good to have information because sometimes we have to work harder than our doctors at coming up with answers. Keep me posted and thank you for reaching out
Thank you so much for sharing. I have my surgery in two weeks. You are angel and wish you the best. Stay strong. You advise is one that will certainly help me in my recovery. God bless you.
keep me posted!
Lovely girl , hang in there, cervical surgery is no joke but always there is a light on the end of the tunnel, you will get better,
I’m sorry you’re having such a difficult time. Thanks so much for sharing your experience. I’m having an ACDF soon, and I have learned so much from your experience.
Thanks again and I hope you find some relief for the pain.
Thank you sunshine! I think I’m doing ok lately! I hope I didn’t convey the opposite! Your kind words are amazing and I do appreciate you taking the time to check in! I hope your surgery and “journey” bc it will be one- goes smoothly and I hope all my videos help you in that process! Please keep me updated
I’m getting this procedure done early Feb. ‘24. Have had years of pain.
I just had c4- c7 done 2 weeks ago. Just came across your video. I’m so sorry it didn’t work 100%for you. But I am going to take your advice and eat more protein and not overdo things! Ty so much for sharing with us. ❤
Hello. I hope all is best as I can be. I found your videos maybe a couple weeks ago. I too had a 4. Level ACDF surgery with 80 % corpectomy at C4 & C7. I am about four months post surgery still in the hard neck brace. First off I would like to say yes please keep making the videos I’ve watched tons of them on the Internet and I don’t know why but I guess your attitude about everything has really helped me. I’m a 44 year-old male from Texas with a 22-year-old daughter in college and a 10 year old son and I’m already on disability for panic disorder and bipolar one and now I have to deal with this. I have a unique insight when I was 16 my mother developed some of the symptoms and found out that she had hereditary or congenital spinal stenosis and she has now had 13 surgeries over the past 25 years I guess. She is a train wreck and it was very hard for me to watch growing up. She had her first surgery in 1996 when it was like mutilation to get surgery. My uncle her brother on the other hand has the same problems but he waited 20 something years to get to surgery and now the surgeries done but he has permanent nerve damage for waiting too long and all he can do all day is sit in a rocking chair and he is probably 60 and my mother is 68. Long story short I just found out six months ago that I inherited the spinal stenosis I needed C3 through C7 fixed and like I said I’m one month post surgery. My mind is all over the place especially being locked in this neck brace by myself without much help. A Warriors greatest asset is their mind so please do the best you can and what I try to do is that plus be grateful for everything that I do have because there are people who are suffering worse than me and I don’t say that negatively towards you I’m just saying it helps me to think that way. Anyways yes keep up the videos if you feel up to it they help me tremendously. Thank you and God bless
I never heard of a corpectomy.. Thank you for the feedback and I hope your recovery goes smoothly. Don't rush anything. I've made quite a few videos. lol mostly repeating myself and being silly but thats me :)
I absolutely love you kim.... the strength you have to actually go trough all of this with a smile
Thank you.. I try
Thanks for all the info. Have faith. Good luck to you.
I had the same surgery but i also got a spacer. Good luck with your future treatments. Yes everyone should take it easy regardless how good you feel
Bless you Kim! You are such a strong and beautiful soul. I have just had a repeat fusion from C5- C7 after the first one failed and was incorrectly done. Fingers crossed it works out this time!! I TOTALLY GET what you are saying. My journey has been over 7 years and I even have had 2 surgeries for Thoracic Outlet Syndrome that didn't help and I didn't really need. The pain, being given hope and then having it taken away, being treated like a drug addict and everything else that goes with this can only be understood by someone that has also been on this path! I am so grateful that I watched this today!! 2 weeks post surgery and the timing couldn't be better! I am also a very independent person! (My wife would call it being stubborn lol) But now after watching this, I will definitely be eating more protein and I will also be moving less. Thank you for sharing your story! I truly wish you all the best moving forward and I hope that you get to realize your dream of becoming a pilot. Remember, like attracts like and therefore good things will always ultimately come to good people! We just sometimes have to go through tough times to get there, but I know you will continue to do great things and help make a difference in many people's lives. That is the gift that you bring to this world. Best wishes
Thank you so much for this. You made my day. It’s definitely been rough the last couple months. I’ll make a video maybe later this week given more updates. Thank you again and I really hope that you get through this.
Very grateful to your advice Kim!
I had same exact acdf surgery 4 years ago and did get relief for 18 mos. Don’t flip on an inversion table/ Teeter or your hardware will fail and significantly move! (Happened to my mother)- My shoulders, hands and arms - same issues. Bone tries to heal bone so spurs become an issue. Also, the discs above and below start to go. The more surgeries you have, the more you will need. I have thoracic and lumbar issues too, but no more surgeries for me! Stay moving! You seem to be in great spirits! Don’t give into the madness the best you can! Pain meds are a band aid! You have the best attitude possible! Stay beautiful and keep trying NOT to allow the pain to take you over!
really! so me leaning over all day to "Stretch" and feel movement isn't good?? i know the one dr said not to do it to often,.. but sometimes i need that.
thank you for the kind words and reminders!
@@KimWright I think stretching is great- just worried about flipping upside down- like on a Teeter Hang Up. The neurosurgeon said I was full of sh when I told him what happened to my mom. He had advised me to try it (had a Teeter I gave away once I had the acdf) and also to wrap a towel around my arm. Just programmed for surgery! When they realize you don’t want another, they’re not usually very helpful. Smh
Hello Kim, for starters you look absolutely amazing 😍 but I’m sorry you’re going through this I’m having issues still also I was hit while stopped at a red light almost a year ago and it’s been down hill from there. I’ve had 3 injections since and will be going for more MRI images in the next few weeks but hang in there you’re not going at this alone I’m fighting with you also 💪🏾💪🏾
Hey Kim, I have numbness in my fingers and severe pain in my neck. Just starting my journey, I’m having an X-ray tomorrow and nerve conduction test next month. I expect to have a MRI done shortly after the nerve conduction test. Bless your heart Kim, keep the vids coming. Your inner and outer beauty will keep us coming back forever.
@@imveryhungry112 X-ray indicated “mild spondylosis” with slight bone spurs between c5 and c6. Nerve conduction test showed slight impediment in Ulnar nerve at the elbow (cubical tunnel syndrome), but no issues with nerve roots.
Overall great news. No neck surgery in the foreseeable future. Might have to get elbow surgery if symptoms become unmanageable.
I haven’t had a super healthy neck due to high school football and a bad wreck. I think my neck was aggravated by painting my house and deck. Neck pain has all but disappeared after 6 weeks of r&r and lots of Aleve.
I'm so sorry you're going through all of this. You definitely have helped keep me informed and on the watch on my own recovery. I recently had my c4-c5 and c5-c6 disc replacement surgery the way my insurance worked they needed me to have 6months of physical therapy but I had to stop mine because I was in so much pain and had to have my doctor basically write a letter to insurance explaining that because mine is so bad it would be dangerous for me to do physical therapy. I'm experiencing numbness in my hands and arms when I look down it has gotten worse since surgery but idk I'm supposed to schedule a nerve test to see what's going on.
I had c5-c7 so I know where youre coming from. It gets more painful the first months after surgery since the spinal cord may swollen a bit
Please keep me posted
Hi Kim, nice watching your video. Take good care and all the best! I just did my ACDF a week ago. 😊
Good evening Kim. I am having a consultation with my neurologist Monday to decide if I would need surgery or therapy. I have done therapy some years ago and it didn't help and I saw a chiropractor last year and he told me I need to get this done. Praying for you 🙏 Kim for some healing and comfort 🙏.
Hi Kim,my name is Leigh i live in the United Kingdom.
I road cycle and was quite fit,i went to bed one evening and woke up in so much pain in my hands arms snd legs.
It was like i was partially paralyzed aswell,my fingers were affected to.
I had MRI Scan and was told that i have Cervical Stenosis myelopathy C3 to C7.
I held off as long as i could but the pain got to much.
I had the operation on my neck and had the Cervical stenosis myelopathy operation in February 2022 this year.
I had three cages put in my neck.
I seen how brave you was before my operation and that gave me the confidence to go through with the surgery.
The stenosis in my neck it turns out is caused from the top two levels C1 to C2 being fused together.
This is from birth and is called klippel feil syndrome.
I felt so good after my surgery for a week and then i was awoken at night with pain back in my hands and arms and within days my legs.
I had more Xrays and MRI scans the specialist said i will require more surgery on my neck,this means another cage put in at level C7.
The specialist did say the pain may never go away but shouldn't get any worse.
But living day to day with the pain is not nice.
The medical team said im really young to have this which i found out when attending the spinal clinic as the patient's were all in there 70s and 80s.
I looks like that you and i have been dealt a bad hand in a set of cards as the saying goes.
Keep doing the UA-cam videos as its good that we are not alone with this debilitating problem and sometimes very daunting future living with this.
I wont lie it has taken my life over.
But you made it so clear to face up and have the operation.
Yes the pain is back,but like the specialist have told me if i refused the surgery i would end up paralyzed in a wheelchair.
So the surgery is a success to an extent but my neck makes a loud crack noise now and then and will have to live with the pain.
The spinal clinic have referred me to a neurological team to see if there is something they can do about the pain.
Keep in touch and i will keep you updated on my journey😊.
Definitely keep me posted. I’m curious if you get offered any referrals or testing etc that we don’t have here in us
Hiya Kim,I hope you are having a nice day.
Thank you for replying.
I will keep you up to date with what all the SPECIALISTS here in the United Kingdom find and treatments.
Because after the same surgery as you,we both still have the same symptoms still.
I feel for you as you have to pay for medical expenses in America,as here in the UK it’s free..
I find you are a breath of fresh air that you are trying to help others the same as us.
I will keep in touch.
I’m hoping to start cycling again but only indoors on my turbo trainer.
As the specialists here have advised me not to go back on the road at the present time.
It’s a shame at our age we have stenosis,it takes your life over.
Videos of your cat 😂 Keep your head up and keep smiling.
Don’t be to hard on yourself it’s not what you have and haven’t done that you feel the same pain and numbness.
I done it all by the book and I have the pain and numbness and I don’t sleep much either.
Enjoy the rest of your day,I will keep you up to date.😊👍
Kim & Leigh UK, Mia also UK is shining with your inspiration and feeling your defeats to her core. Surfing this wave behind you sisters, wishing everyday I could press reset and escape this nightmare. Pain, fear, uncertainty prescribes who I am. I share your struggle and wonder like you how my spine could be such a mess when I took good care of my health...!Leigh I woke up the same Oct 21 and it seems life will never be the same. Awaiting c5/6 with fusion, trying to deal!!! Thank you for your honesty, courage and, advice. There is a silence in the UK on this, a certain mystery. Communication is how we learn, how we thrive. Connecting with others with empathy is what makes us human. We struggle, we get stronger, we wobble with all the what ifs. We relate and we carry on. We are changed forever by something I bet we all took for granted., a good spine
@@leighyoung403 any updates? I’ve been posting random feedback but it seems like it’s always the same message to other people. Overall I’m doing OK. I have had it start taking my pain medicine sometimes mostly at night time because I can’t get comfortable. Also at times have to sleep without my pillow again like it was before surgery because that little bit of incline sometimes is really uncomfortable.
But all in all I’m tolerating the new norm and I’m holding out as long as possible. The numbness in the left hand and the bee stings sensations are still there but I’m just adapting. I just turned 40 last week lol. I can make it another few more years right lol keep me posted and thank you for interacting with me and for the positive feedback. I’ll definitely make some more videos and I’ll include Jedi
@@miacenzatti3938 Thank you for the feedback. It is insane how common it seems to be when we start putting ourselves out there and get feedback from real people. It just seems so bizarre but thank you for sharing your story and I hope to continue to hear back from you
Hi Kim, came across your video. Wanted to share I gave had 2 c-spine surgeries and am fused C4 to C7 with disectomy at C5-C6. My first surgery failed after 5 years. I had my 1st surgery in Nov. 1998, my 2nd surgery Feb. 2013. The 2nd surgery was successful. I call it having brackets/ball bearings which allows me to have range of motion. I still suffer with migraines, and my left arm numbness with shooting pain to my thumbs and fingers. I gave also has issues cropping up with my right arm numbness occasionally. My quality of life is good in that I know my limitations, what not to lift, not work too long without getting up and moving around. There is no guarantee that surgery will fix 100%. I think if I'm walking, have use of my arms, and van do most things if I set my mind to it; Jesus is good.
You sound like me to some extent. I am trying to keep that mindset as well.. Like the new norm vs something wrong
God bless you… have faith 😊 things will work out… stay strong 💪 great 👍🏻 Intel
❤You did a great video. This is the first one I've seen. My husband is having the same video. You explain everything very good. I am so sorry you have to go through this again. My husband is going in for his second time C4 through 7 first-time C4 and 5. He is 67 years old with stenosis this is sure worrying me. He still thinks he's 30 rides a Harley it's going to be a nightmare keeping him down. But he has been in pain for a long time.😢
Glad it was helpful! A second Surgery! I am sure he has held off as long as he could. But sometimes we just had to do what our body tells us.
I had c4-c7 as well.
as long as his images and multiple specialists agree- he prob is doing what is right. keep in mind though, i've been told surgery isnt for pain recovery, its to keep things stable and prevent things from getting worse.
Hello Kim iam in Australia 60 male you are a inspiration God bless take care. Your info has helped me
So glad! Thank you
I just had the surgery C5 - C7 two days ago I am glad I found your video because it will help me so much thank you.
I hope you rest rest rest and PROTEIN! lol
Just see this now. I hope things are going well now and you were able to get this resolved. Respect sent and best wishes.
Thanks you are awesome. This is great information.
Had the same surgery in 2018 so far so good But I know in time the bones that are not fused will eventually fail. You look good!
ACDF surgery, level C5-6-7
2 joints since January 2017, until now it's fine.
love you.❤
I have been putting off surgery since 11/21. C5-C7. They will also go through the back with a plate as well as the front. I’m afraid I will be worse off than now. Dr. says as long as I am not experiencing much numbness then I can wait until I start feeling it. He is going to have me see a pain Dr. in the meantime. I have little chance of fusion because I smoke and I’m 53. I don’t know what to do except wait as long as possible. I have ZERO support mentally or physically. I’m sorry you didn’t have better results. But i love your personality and I’m glad you have friends to be there for you. Hang in there!
Thank you. It’s definitely difficult
Not how I thought my life would be but it is what it is
Sister you must give yourself more time to rest and heal. You are doing to much after surgery. Yes more physio before surgery but lots of rest after surgery is a must. Plus you move your head a lot when talking. Adopt the graceful moves of a Swan and be much more kind to yourself. Love and blessings to you.
I know I know ….
And I’m passionate when I speak lol
A swan? - I’ve done MMA for a decade - it’s all about the head swerve 😆
Kim! I am 3 weeks in c4-c7. yay - I hope you are feeling better ...thx for posting
Hope you keep the steady pace of healing!!!
Good luck I had the same I'm doing well but I used one of those neck collars that helped build bone and it was a tough surgery so good luck Hope things work out I'm a lot better than I was
Thank you kim.im going in sept 20 for c6 and c7 fusion.i hope you can get yourself back to normal. Praying for you.
Hope you are doing well
@@KimWright a couple hiccups but 110% better
Sorry to hear about your results, hope the surgery went well. And I do have to say, you are truly beautiful to watch. /L5S1
thanks! just being silly and vulnerable lol
I'm having the same surgery but I'm 70 years old. However you have given me hope. Thank you Kim.
thank you
keep me posted on how you make out!
Soooo helpful!!! I just had c3-4, 4-5, 5-6 at Jefferson Cherry Hill. I’m still watching videos because I’m nervous! Burning pain in the back of my neck & shoulders.. wondering if I did too much lifting trying to be a good plant mom and maintain my independence without being a burden. Aspen collar annoys my soul and I can’t get comfortable. I sleep in a zero gravity patio chair which helps but I’m definitely rethinking my entire existence at the moment 🙄. Thanks again for your videos.. it definitely helps to know I’m not imagining things.
Hello! thank you for the message.. how are you doing?
Oh Kim I’m sorry to hear you are having a rough time. Praying for you. Trust in the Lord, he will be your strength.
Ty for info. I was planning to have c4 to c7 done. Disc replacement Pain every day. For years. I think i will just forget surgery.
i hope that was your decision but not just based from my videos.. wishing you healing
I am in Phila w Jeff docs. I had to have ACDF C5-6-7 two levels to prevent paralysis. I was never taken seriously for complaining of pain in my body for over ten years. I had low back problems and was referred to pain managment. I had balance issues for years and started with body spasms plus daily charlie horse spasm in the legs and frequent falls. I fell down a flight of steps and I insisted we start scanning from the head down. I am 16 months out from the ACDF. I am better than pre surgery in all 4 extremities. I started having episodes of full numbness in my arms and fingers about once a week. They recommended a carpal tunnel surgeon. about 8 months post surgery. NO thank you, and most of it resolved with less use and rest over months. I have flares that lasts for weeks with unstable balance, full body pain , extremity numbness, full torso spasms, b & b, and gait issues. Cervical and Lumbar both have stenosis. I get epidural injections for lumbar nerve compression. I have also declined in function. I have accepted I will never have the same function again. I am starting to reassess my daily and life goals. This is a relentless medical burden that is exhausting. I try and maintain movement through water exercise but all activity and treading water increases the spinal cord symptoms. I believe in move it or loose it. If asked, I would still repeat the surgery as to prevent full paralysis. If I was every rear ended in a car or had a jolt to my body then I would no longer be independent in my own care. had I not gotten the surgery. I think we have narrow areas in our spine just like crooked teeth needing braces. They just have not perfected pain control or back surgery to restore loss function. It is hopeful when you get surgery but you sign up not really understanding the risks. No matter how well you check the internet. Also there is a major risk by not doing surgery. Becareful PT can also cause more injury. Kim, you are not alone. You are brave to share your story and you bring compainionship and support to those going through the same.
wow. your story is SOOO similar to mine and so many others. isn't it weird : you have to keep moving so you dont lose it, but if you move it, you're in more pain...
but yeah- goal = no wheelchair or worse
WOW
i really hope you are doing ok and thank you for taking the time to share all this.
Do you regret not doing surgery sooner?
@@ivansmiljkovic9097 I would get surgery ASAP.
Hi Kim,
I’ve watched several of your videos now and it was a great thing to do for others going through ACDF surgery & rehabilitation. Especially with the timeline and all. So thank you for this. I just had C5-C6-C7 ACDF 4 weeks ago and felt great the first week also! Been a bit of struggle after. Especially this last week. Your videos have been a big help. I thought I’d be doing better and able to go back to work already. But I ran across this video and just wanted to say sorry about the fusion not working completely. Can they just fix the 1 screw? C4? I know you didn’t do the bone fusion apparatus early on. Maybe repair the one screw and retry that?
I’m wearing this bone infusion thing 4 hours a day. Also in PT now. But it hurts. I’m in more pain after PT than I was after surgery and it’s basic/gentle crap!
Anyway, just wanted to say thank you and possibly throw an option out there for your fusion and get your opinion.
Appreciate it and keep your chin up!
Hello
I am sorry you had a setback too. So according to my new images and talking to my original surgeon, he disagrees with what i was told (this video)
he says my hardware is good and he doesn't recommend any other surgeries. just pain management, I made a new video in case that give more info.
pt def made me sore but i didn't keep up with it after 4 months post surgery bc of all the new symptoms i got. but i wish i kept with something,
keep me posted on how you're doing. :)
Kim your videos are helpful
Thank you :)
thanks for sharing, i had c3 - c7 fusion 4 months ago and feel ok but the numbing in my arms/hands/fingers has not gone away. i was sent to a hand/arm/shoulder specialist who determined i had carpal tunnel in both hands and pronator syndrome in left and cubital syndrome in right. over last 3 weeks, i had surgeries to decompress the median and ulnar nerves. we will see if the fusion worked at my 6 month visit in august. hope you get well...you may want to see a spinal specialist not a neuro cat. in 2015 i had procedure in lumbar and cspine done by a neurosurgeon. he was good but i like the spine specialist better. good luck. ooops i was back in the gym after two months, shhh don't tell my doc
Please let me know the outcome of that because it’s some thing I was wondering
I had a C5-7 acdf 4 years ago due to spinal stenosis that had worsened and two bulging discs in the same area. I really tried to follow the directions of my surgeon, had a bone stimulator etc. Immediately post op I felt amazingly better over all and my radiculopathy improved and all. Then at about 3 months post op I started having symptoms returning, but not as bad as before surgery. We did xrays, cts, nerve study, and an mri, as they thought the union failed. However, everything looked fine at the time. We even looked into thoracic outlet syndrome etc and it all looked fine. My surgeon at the time couldn't figure out what the issue was, and recommended maybe going to one of the university hospitals. Well we couldn't afford to travel that far for treatment at that time. So I just dealt with it.
Over the last few months I started getting worsening nerve pain, and nerve pain in areas I didn't have it previously. Which indicates possibly issue below C7, and I have a lot of pain above C5 as well just in the spine though. Well I went back to my surgeon the other day, and he said that the xrays they took (just a front and profile view, no flexion or extension) showed a possible failed union in the bottom. So right now I am waiting on my insurance to approve a CT to get a better look at my fusion. Which he said if it did fail, there is no amount of PT or injections that is going to help and that I will need surgery again. He said if that isn't the problem then we will do an MRI to check the other discs. However, I am wondering if it might be a little of both a failed union and possibly that C7-T1 area too.
Sadly, I also have a condition called Ehlers Danlos Syndrome (EDS), which means my connective tissues all over my body are defective. This however, wasn't diagnosed until the year after I had my fusion. I had my fusion at age 32. I have heard that normal people usually don't have issues with the above or below discs until at least 10 years later. It was suspected I had EDS prior to my surgery so I had already expected that I might need more fusions down the road and probably sooner than 10 years. However, at the time of my surgery I was already getting myelopathy as well, plus my stenosis had progressed quite a bit in just 2 years. So the concern was if I were to have a bad fall or be in a wreck I could be paralyzed. With my condition I do fall fairly often, including having a few good falls and a car wreck in the 4 years since my surgery. So anyways I know this is a lot, but all of this to say that I totally understand where you are coming from. However, like you I didn't have many options. In fact, my paternal grandfather was slowly being paralyzed from spinal stenosis in his neck when he was in his late 70's and had to have the same surgery. Genetically I didn't get the good end of the stick for this. One of my paternal aunts also has a problem in the same area as me. My mother also just had one of her cervical discs fused. So not the best of genetics. I will definitely sub to your channel and follow your updates to see how things go for you. Plus I love cat videos as well lol.
Sorry this is so long you probably didn't want my life history lol. I make art videos or at least I have been trying to get back into it again. However, I will probably be making a video talking about these things very soon myself.
@@melsgalleria omg.. that is so weird.. I TOTALLY get what you mean about the pain the spine only .. i have areas below my fusion that hurt so bad.. i explain it as compressed feelings + pain... and then when i lay on my back in bed and try to move or get up.. it feels like the top fusion (c4-c5) is pulling apart-- and that is the level that didnt fuse.. ugh.. it sucks having this and knowing youi'll need more.. i just can't get my head in a good enough place to go through this again.. sorry for the grammar but wanted to reply and say me too sis.. ugh.. i wish you some relief
Had mine done at 3 levels in 2014.. Never been pain free especially after the use of my arms LOL
First video of you...taking u with me if it comes down surgery. Did you do any cortisone shots before you went ahead with surgery and what pain meds help you get through? And I just read your comment how its gotten worse since this video. You're not alone in this journey and you're helping me and so many others get through a very challenging time. Mistake...that was someone elses comment to you.
lol. Thanks. I did shots before. And didn’t work. Way too painful. Felt like the needle was scratching bone or cartilage. 😬. The meds of lyrica and hydrocodone helps me. As well as heating pads and massage.
Kim I have c3/c4&c5/c6 stenosis with a flattening of my cord. Numbness pins and needles indicates nerve damage. Neurosurgeons are the electrician's and osteosurgeons are the carpenters.
With laminectomy, they cut the ligament that supports and holds the back of the head up. There is a possibility that the head may drop forward after this. I am so sorry that you have Failed fusion. Any fusion puts stress above the discs and below. Need to see video spinal stenosis Dr Cantor.
You are in USA, have a look at Dr Houser Caring Medical. He is amazing. I am in Aussie, if I could afford to go to him I would! Just 2 weeks post ACDF C5-7. Also seen a small study on PRP intradiscular with really good long term results regenerating discs, Dr Hauser can do that (PRP is platelet rich plasma). I would also look into possibility of haleuronic acid injection into the disc if PRP unavailable.
I have had 2 ACDF surgery in a 10 month span. This is no joke
Thankyou. You've got a screw loose !! 🤣
haha
Hi there,
I've watched all your videos. I've gotten c4-c7 acdf and unfortunately my neck pain hasnt dissapeared entirely. I totally relate to how you feel about living with chronic pain.
Have you tried yoga?, I've been practicing bowspring. I totally recommend it. Whats more, acupuncture can help.
Anyway, I've been told that my constant pain is quite likely caused by stenosis due to acidic fluid in my spinal cord, in other words, I might need to modify the PH levels. Maybe it can help you
I haven’t really done yoga. To go from fighting every day to try to be chill is a bit unnatural for me lol
I gasped because that is always a possible occurrence in multilevel fusions. I don’t know if they told you no alcohol, no smoking and no ibuprofen because it will interfere with the fusing. I also take 1200 mph calcium with 5000 iu vitamin D. I also wear a soft collar to sleep with because my neck goes wonky. I hope things go well for you with the next surgery.
Yeah, I dont smoke and hardly drink. That is good news through for ppl that might! Good looking out. I should have done my Vit D and Calcium.. again-- I was dumb
I don't wear the collar bc the dr said since Im so far out, wearing it might feel good but might further weaken the muscles.
I'm 5 months out from ACDF 1 level c3&4. I've learned a lot more watching videos on here than from my surgeon 😢. Right hand fingers asleep all the time. So sorry you & others are suffering much more than me, I've read you need to take vitamin D together with vitamin K2, that's what I'm taking. I have appointment with surgeon in a few days to see if I'm fusing.
Keep the faith, never ever give up!!!
I have now had 3 neck surgeries. It is a road that is hard. My heart goes out to u. I am not doing the best since. To swallow for me is hard. I have a bone transplant. Disc replacement. All the screws. It's a road that is one that's hard. My love goes out to u.
I am so sorry.. I get it.. never did I think the mental part of this was going to be difficult.. I hope you get relief
God Bless tomorrow will be my 14 days after 3level c4-c7. Need to buy protein an start walk. So sorry about your case Good is in control
yes! get moving and eat!
You are a nice person and look great. I saw your MRI and you have a straight lordotic curve in your neck post surgery. I thought that the surgery should fix that ,did you ask your doctor about that? And why did you go to an orthopaedic surgeon instead of a neurosurgeon?
I getting c3 to c7 disc replaced..... what do you think as an option ?..
There is a new retractable fusion device being trialed by UCL. Allows movement. Also ultrasonic spine surgery decompressed spine without removing discs. Disc replacement allows one to retain movement. See Dr Cantor US.
Dr. Cantor is a quack who offers surgery he claims no one else is onto yet. That's the first red flag.
Mmmm are you saying you have a screw loose Kim 😂 i love your cheerful approach theres no point in being morose, this shit happens, to both good and bad alike, ive had days when i think, oh well thats my life done, im washed up! We are to young to give up, so we face the awful battle, being miserable wont help. Im 5 years in awaiting surgery, and dealing with a medical negligence issue cos after a serious RTA my local hospital missed a fractured spine and sent me for physio ended up with a destroyed disk L5, if it werent for that i wouldnt need surgery🤦🏻♂️
ugh.. good luck w all that!
strange that failed fusion do you smoke ? you still looking very beautiful ! how much time did you wait before ACDF ? did you experimente tigling in your lower members ? because I underwent ACDF by waiting 3 months before that sh*t so even after ACDF done I still feel sometimes tingling in all my members. and what about ASD , did you see on MRI others discs below and above ACDF start suffering due to fusion ?
I do not smoke. One dr said failed,.. then another said "i dont think so" .. its mind blowing -- how are there so many different thoughts,.. isnt this science?
I waited 1-2 years from ER visit and DX to more pain and slowing of finger dexterity and strength to getting the surgery.
I still have a lot of numbness and tingling in half my hand. and yes starting to get ASD.......... :(
Hello Kim... I will be having ACDF in 9 days... is there anything that you can advice for me?? hope you feel better.. take care..
You look fabulous! What preoperative nesting would you do?
omg.. nesting
protein
i wish i had my adjustable bed frame but that came later
prepared foods w lots of protein would have been good
everything cleaned beforehand
pillows
make sure to get all meds filled before
easy on/off clothes
i will attach the amazon stuff that was helpful
I’m really sorry that you’ve got to keep struggling. ☹️
Hi Kim thank you for giving us insights into your ACDF and the useful advice. I was scared (and still am due to the loss of flexibility and adjacent segment disease) of ACDF therefore I travelled from Melbourne Australia to Melbourne Florida to have left C5-C6, C6-C7 laser disc repair and bilateral C5-T1 rhizothomies on the 08/29/2023 at the Deukspine Institute by Neurosurgeon Ara Deukmedjan. It cost me $72k USD (big loss). The surgery was a total failure because I woke up after surgery with a dropped head syndrome that I did not have before surgery. This was not the only problem. I also noticed decreased neck rotation and head tilt back. After surgery these massive lumps appeared at the rear of the neck which are still there to this day. The Florida neurosurgeon also did rhizothomy of RT L4-L5, L5-S1; BL SI Joints on 08/30/2023. I have been suffering chronic excruciating pain of my whole neck, massive muscle spasms, heavy head, extremely sore traps, shoulders, shoulder blades, arms, hands, fingers referred pain, numbness, tightness, sharp pins and needles that now also spread into my back, groin, legs and feet. I am seeing a new neurosurgeon in March here in AUS, but he will probably opt for a C3-C7 ACDF. I will tell him that I will be trying all non surgical options first and exercise. I don't want another surgery after the first one failed on me. I am also thinking about trying regenerative therapies such as stem cells, PRP, prolotherapy. I have been in pain since August 2022 and it's been hell, no quality of life, no relaxation, high stress, deep depression etc. I used to be a very fit road cyclists and gym goer just to 2 years ago (age 64) but the accidents (not my fault) of the last 11 years while cycling the roads, really damaged my neck and back. I take Nortryptiline 10mg at night for the neurophatic pain and the occasional opioid when the pain is really bad. I pray for you and hope that you will get much better with time. Your numb little finger could be attributed to your C8 nerve between C7-T1.
oh wow this has been a journey. I def relate to you symptoms of pain and head heaviness etc
I really hope something brings you relief
You seem to move your neck pretty well for having so many fused. Good to see that. Did they use a cadaver bone or a cage in your fusion?
they used cadaver bone and i guess its called a cage ?
@@KimWright Cage and bone are different things. The cage holds your vertebrae while your normal bone grows across. Some use one and some use the other. Bone is supposed to heal better and faster. I'm likely heading there, but doing everything possible as to not.
Kim, so were you moving things around and lifting boxes after you had the surgery? Like during recovery time? I’m sorry that you’re going through this. ❤
so its hard. i have a good vacuum that you dont have to push much - so i was doing that and other activities. they say to not sit still and be smart-- but be careful... i think its mostly about over extending things and lifting things that are over 5-10lbs
but follow your dr's recommendations
I’ve had my lower spine fused in 2015.
My question is: Why would you have lifted anything and why would you have vacuumed anything? I’m certain your surgeon went over the issues that could happen from lifting/pushing.
Please keep make videos cause I have to get the c6-7 area done may 15 2024 scared like hell I have Spinal stenosis The L4, L5 lumbar area was done for me back in October 2022
good luck!!!
Hi so sorry I had my surgery last year April 30 I just also got my one year x-ray and CT scan in my neurosurgeon called me and said my last disc did not fuse and I have a cracked screw almost something like you unbelievable . I don’t have a lot of pain I do have a little pain but not much and he said don’t worry about it some people are a symptomatic but I know this will have to get fixed in the future for now he said don’t worry about it he’s not but just having this in there it’s giving me a little bit of anxiety. Like what Dr. lets you have a cracked screw in your neck ha ha anyway I’m not getting another surgery done until I am having a lot of pain and can’t take it no more
we have too eerily similar issues :) I hope you have an easier week. But it is a HEAD TRIP!!
I will be praying for you . I am about to go threw the procedure. My right arm doesn’t work at all . Can’t brush my hair , can’t cook much . So painful. I just want to be out of pain and my arm to lift . 😢
When our limbs stop working, that is SO SCARY!! Let me know when you go in and keep me posted please!
I have similar from C4 to C7 as a result of severe whiplash from a charity parachute jump a few years back. I've had pain, numbness, electric sensations down both arms for a long while - at times very severe but alleviated somewhat with a cocktail of pain meds. Now I've lost the use of my hand..just woke up one morning and my hand no longer worked. Urgent MRI showed disc herniation and degeneration at multiple levels with cord signal changes at C4/5. I'm having private physio (which is helping but out of pocket and not cheap!) while I wait for a referral to a spinal surgeon. (I also have EDS like another commenter here).
Hello,
Did your doctor have you wear a bone stimulator? I had anterior and posterior. I think that bone stimulator helped me a lot. I had a neurosurgeon.
Good Luck
Hello
I did not have a bone stimulator.
Thanks for sharing your story,. Sorry you're still having so much trouble. I had c3 thru c7 fused in feb 2023. I had throat trouble ever since, trouble swallowing, and choking on every meal. A follow up with my spine surgeon revealed that the fusion did not take, and failed. He says it all has to come back out, and be placed in the back of my neck. Do you know of anyone had this done? I would like to know any pro's and con's. Thanks.
That's terrible. Wow . There is one guy that follows me "Mike C" who had it all from the back multi-levels. We chat on IG.. I will ask him to reach out
@@KimWright Thank you so much.
Thanks so much for these videos. I had C3-C6 two months ago and I have no pain or tingling, but I've developed C5 palsy in both arms. Docs say it could take a few months to correct itself. Anyone else have this issue?
any relief?
@@KimWright Slow progress, but progress it seems. Physical therapy is helping, as long as I put in the work. I'm beyond thankful that I don't experience pain. Just lack of strength and range of motion. Thank you.
@@user-uw8dr1rw9v yay! so happy to hear this for you!!
I have c4, c5, c6 and i have stenosis above and below. Both arms are numb i also get off balance. i feel for you
Hi i had this surgery done a year ago and the disc above failed so im back in again for a 2nd fusion, this can happen they say.
It can.. just sucks that so high up...you ok?
What happened to your spine? I have issues in all 3 areas of the spine. I just had my ACDF in my neck and it was the most painful surgery of my life! So painful!!! Thanks for the tips. Gonna drink a protein shake. My throat is still causing issues with swallowing. I can’t wait until that issue goes away.
I think I was born w stenosis. Then all my hobbies and stuff made it worse. AND I WILL NEVER DO CHIROPRACTOR EVERY AGAIN.... NEVER LET ANYONE NEAR YOUR NECK!!
Good thing is that after a bottle of wine, pain gets away 😄
😆 omg no! I had 2 slushees 😂. I Hardly drink anymore Could you imagine ?!? 😝
I had great surgery about 13 yrs ago now this year 2023 had to have more surgery cage collasped had to have more surgery this time posterior in constant pain to point of wanting to puke no sleep exhausted, depressed ect
Ouch! please keep me posted. That is a tough recovery.
Sorry your fusion failed. I need the same surgery. I am still undecided. But still easy on the eyes🤗
good luck!
Kim what ever you do do not do an M6 disc that design of disc is flawed and they will eventually all fail. The Mobi-C is the disk you want to use that disc will go the mileage all the way into your old age. I’ve been around those Materials that that disc is made out of and the polyethylene core is particularly tough and where you have super polished end plates that are out of very hard material that disc just won’t wear out. Blessing to I wish you well and be healed.
Thank you ! I’m going to do more research. It why aren’t the specialists doing their research ugh 😣
I think I know the answer
and your faied fusion , you think that's concern your neck muscles lack ? also the failed fusion create instabnility ?
not sure how to answer this unfortunately
Have you looked into dr deauk in Melbourne fl I am going there on Wednesday.
did you have surgery yet ? how do you feel ?
I'm in my 6th week of my back of the throat acdf. The horror started with a replacement which my bones just turned to dust because Osteoporosis. So lost middle part of my neck. So emergency surgery for this was the only way to go. Couldn't put disc back use a curved bone and screwed and plated in place. The doctor is not even sure about it. I'm 61 but I'm still got alot life. Please help me heal and what will I do next if this fails
oh wow hun! i hop e things are healing for you. that is quite a journey
did you get pain behind yiur neck?
Thank you
Yes. Still do
Did you follow instructions and not move and wear the neck brace?
Yeah. I wore the brace as told but I think I needed to give it more time before doing chores etc -- I pushed prob a lil too much too fast.
I don't know where you went but you should go to a different surgical team. I suggest Mayo Clinic, Cleveland Clinic, Duke, or Mark Shaffrey at University of Virginia.
Hey just saw your video. I am a recipient of 3 level ADR c4-7 . I d recommend you go with adr instead of fusion . As more fusion will create more pressure on your spine and will cause more herniated disc due to rapid increase in torque. If you get a Artificial disc above and below then you d at least keep the deterioration and domino affect in control. There are many artificial discs that have been approved in US and not all surgeons are equal so please do your own research .
I would love to learn more about this … do you have videos of the journey? Imma go check out your page :)
@@KimWright yea unfortunately I do not have anything regarding that matter on my page. However those videos are after my surgery and before it was impossible to even think about playing the sport at high level . My advise look into m6c and prodisc vivo and maybe simplify . All discs have pros and cons
Did the loose screw cause the fusion to fail or did the screw come loose because the fusion failed? The picture @5:02 looks so scary
That’s a good question. I don’t know if there’s an answer…. It’s like the
chicken or the egg thing.
@@KimWright After watching a shipload of ACDF videos, I've come to believe that doctors release patients to normal activity much too soon. It should probably be closer to 4 months of light activity to make sure the fusion takes hold before doing anything strenuous. Wishing you all the best, Kim!
I had the same. Pain to the max.Im just two months after my operation. Very uncomfortable. I believe the halo they had on me should have stayed in for a while not just one day.I hope I don't have to do it again. I got hit by a truck. Vacuuming ain't nothing. I couldn't even comb my own hair. It's almost just like getting decapitated.
it is def tough. the pain... but for me it is the ptsd
I am 36 years old, my doctor advised me for ACDF at single level c5-c6.
I am very confused after reading comments. What should i do? Should i go for surgery.
Hello. Only you and your dr can make that decision. I know its a tough one to make.
@@KimWright you are right.
How are you feeling now.
Hi kim. What was the reason that you needed surgery? Where you in a car accident
Genetics ? Tough hobbies ??
Idk kim , I’ve had c5-6 fused 10 years ago . Neurosurgeon wants to fuse with laminectomy c2-7. I’ve agreed to do c6-7 fusion now. My neck looks much worse than yours imo.
I was once an accomplished guitar 🎸 player that can’t do it now so to neck pain
I dint realize I sent you a post about dr. Deauk lol I had my surgery 3 days ago please make the call and send your m.r.i I had 4 5 and 6 done 3 days ago .
Hi honey , haven't heard from you in awhile. I hope you're doing well sweetie