One month post surgery for same levels. Felt great the night of surgery and I had very little discomfort for the past month. I’m shocked that it was so easy for me. Don’t regret it and wish I’d have done it sooner. Good luck to anyone facing the same procedure.
I had a C4-5-6 ACDF surgery the third week in October. I'm coming up on my 3-month check-up the last week in January, 2023, and I'm hoping my surgeon gives me the green light to resume all physical activities. Like Danish, I'm still experiencing muscle tightness all over my body because I was restricted from doing anything physical for basically 9 weeks - the worst of which was not raising my arms above my shoulder/head, or turning my head excessively. I was extremely active prior to the surgery, and to go cold turkey on exercise, my body just tightened up. Once I get clearance from my surgeon, I'll start a stretching/strengthening program with a PT and massage therapist. Also, I fully agree with what Danish said - despite all of what I've been through with the surgery, I'm so glad I had it done. I had a fabulous surgeon, and he and his PA told me exactly what to expect, and they were both spot on. Rule #1 - be patient. It'll take time to recover, but it will be well worth it. Good luck!
@@datsuntoyy I had the ACDF surgery in October, 2022, so it's been almost 18 months - and there is no actual pain. I'm back playing tennis, Pickleball, and all other physical activities I did prior to the surgery. However, despite the surgery being a success, I'm still experiencing a stiffer neck than before the procedure. But, in full disclosure, I wasn't as diligent in doing my stretching exercises as I should have been, initially. But, I've re-committed myself to doing the 5 simple neck stretches almost every single day, plus I'm receiving massage treatment from a qualified therapist, and my neck is much looser now than before. The therapist works on my trapz and my pec minor muscles, and these areas being tight will definitely cause a stiff neck. Slowly but surely I'm getting back to a better range of motion, but my surgeon told me ahead of time that I'd never have the total range of motion I had before the surgery.
@@scotthunt2479 Thankyou. Glad you're doing well. I'm not quite at the fusion stage but I fear it's close. Success stories like yours make it easier for me to commit to it.
This gives me some encouragement I need to have c4 through c7 done from a fractured neck back in 94, I healed up fine from that injury and was back to normal after about a year but as I got older osteoarthritis took over and has nearly completely stopped me from living a quality life, I have bad anxiety a depression and I know it's cause of my injury, I use to race moto cross and race stock cars and was very active and I realize I'm to old for that stuff now, at 53 years old, I can't even swing a golf club without severe nerve pain, and I am scared to death to have surgery but there will come a time I won't have a choice
Hey Tim - I'm 50 and have to sign the consent in a month for the same thing C4-7. my surgeon uses titanium disks. Did you get the surgery? Any feedback?
@@TomDeloge1 Had acdf surgery last Friday c4 c5 c6 was from the front and fecet implants in from the back side its going on 10 days and its been extremely rough, that fecet surgery is a killer I have extreme surgery pain between my shoulder blades, and am on strong pain killers and muscle relaxers and barely cuts the pain, I hope it gets better, and I'm having to wear this neck brace for 6 weeks, its driving me nuts
@@timharris7425 I hope your pain is gone or at least subsided some. I have same surgery February 2023 and here it is August 2024, and it has started to fail, and it shows that it's damaged my C3.
Thank you for the update. I'm so happy to hear that you are doing well. I also have weakness in my arms. The positive for me after 30 days is I have more movement in my neck than I have had for two years and the constant pain has been relieved already. unfortunately the numbness in my dominant hand has not changed as the surgeon hoped it would. The change in the stiffness and pain in my neck has made it all worthwhile though.
Hi Joy. I had same issues and am 2 months post op. I still have a very numb finger. Doctor said it may or may not come back. The discomfort through my arm and shoulders was resolved right away. Blessings. Thanks for sharing
Nerve pain is no joke, it’s this terrible radiating pain kind of like ringing a gong. I had ACDF on my C5-6 in June 2022 and I’m so happy that I did. I was in so much pain before the surgery but now I feel awesome.
Thank you for sharing! I’m 39 and doing an ACDF on C5-C6 in a month, and I’m very nervous about possible new pain, or all issues not being resolved and still having constant muscle stiffness. I’m curious, were the muscles in your neck always inflamed and super sore, like they were doing the majority of the work to support your head? This started for me at 17 years old, and I literally don’t think there has been a single day in the past 22 years where I haven’t been aware of my neck pain.
@@NelleWood I actually only had pain in my shoulder for years, no neck pain until about 2 weeks before my surgery. I was very shocked when my Ortho told me it was the discs in my neck that were degenerating and compressing on nerves causing the shoulder pain. When I did experience neck pain (I was already scheduled for the surgery) it felt like I couldn’t hold my head up at all! I also could only lay down on my left side. I also would experience more shoulder pain when I was driving but nothing when I was sitting in a “regular” chair. For me, I have not experienced any issues after the surgery; no limited range in my movements, no more nerve pain, it’s so awesome! Everybody is different but I highly recommended the surgery. The only thing that totally sucked was having to wear that neck brace nonstop for a month. Thank god I already owned a Lazy-Boy type recliner because that was the only way I could sleep and function lol … You basically cannot “lay down” with the neck brace on so you gotta be “propped up” with a lot of pillows if you’re in a bed. And just getting in and out of a bed even when you’re propped up kinda sucks so the recliner helped a lot. I was basically parked out in my living room with a couple of pillows and a blanket until I was able to remove the neck brace after a month. I also highly recommend getting bendable drinking straws when you’re wearing the brace because you’re not able to tip your head back when you’re drinking. I hope that helped even though that was just my experience. I’ve only known 2 other people who’ve had the surgery, my Ortho doctor and my godmother and they’re both happy they had it.
Thanks for sharing. I had c5-6 in May and this past week I feel like something is jabbing into my throat and pain has resurfaced. Hopefully it will resolve soon. Glad to hear you have made progress. It’s tough being on the younger side and being limited physically. Hiking with my dogs helps me mentally. 🙏
I am 2 months post-op for C5-7. It was no joke. I ended up in the hospital for 3 days post-op. I also will say I didn't have immediate relief of symptoms. So don't get discouraged if that's you. The one thing no one warned me was that there can be an emotional backlash the week after surgery. It's alot to cope with. I just started back at work this week. I'm glad I gave myself more time before going back. I needed it. I'm only working half days and it's hard. But I'm determined to get back to doing what I love to... ballroom dancing!
@dancingninja4678 😮😮😮 hope your even better now. 6mo laying in bed meds and ice waiting for doc appts and clearances for surgery. Super depressing and anxious. Can't walk more than 20 ft. I pray your good now. Sure hope ican handle recovery and I can get out of pain.
Having same exact C5 thru 7 surgery next Friday apperciate this as i am nervous your video helps shed some light and proves there is some at the end of the tunnel. Thank you
I had C3,4,5,6 disc replacement and grafts with plates, straps, and screws on 5/9/2024. Today, 9/23/2024, was my first decent day. The nerve pain in my neck is gone, but the muscular pain has been relentless. PT caused severe pain the following day. I completed 2 months of PT last week. I've started acupuncture hoping for relief. Water aerobics, swimming, long hot showers, heating pads, and my Shiatsu heated massager have helped. I am five months and two weeks post op and I think I am finally turning a corner. I'm seriously considering not having a fusion on L4, 5, Si 1 until it is absolutely required. I'm interested in peoples' experiences with lower spinal fusion.
Thanks for this video it just encourage me alot, i was very worried cause i had a booking for C5 to T1 surgery ahead and my mind was not at peace...it just take alot of my shoulder..
The pains you described are what I’m already dealing with along with the nerve pain. I hope I can hold my phone normal again. :( I wish you all the luck. I pray I can get back to work.
I had 4,5, and 6 done with ACDF surgery in February 2023 and I was fine for over a year but now the fusion plate is coming undone so I have to get surgery again. Both sides of neck and back of neck are in so much pain and it is causing pain in right arm and both hands. Hurst so much I am lucky to average 3 hours of sleep a night.
😢😢😢 truely hope you recover good this time. I'm on ice waiting for surgery. Alone anxiety and fear. Had c4c5 14 yrs ago after a brutal attack. Now c6c7 and bad stenosis. Can't walk for 6 mo. Laying here waiting. I'll think of you and pray for you
After surgery, my plate "settled", (it dropped but the surgeon avoided that word). The surgeon did not check for osteoporosis prior to surgery. It turns out I do have osteopenia. I'm sorry to hear your procedure has to be corrected. My surgeon is xraying me every three months to make sure he doesn't have to repeat my procedure. In the meantime, I am focusing on strengthening my supporting muscles, exercising, eating a diet high in calcium, Vit D, and C, and getting plenty of rest. Take care of yourself and be patient with the process. It isn't easy!
@@sharonwessman9638 It seems I was misspeaking. It has micromovements which means it is not enough movement to do the surgery. I was hoping to be able to avoid heavy medications, but I likely will not be able to. I hope yours does not have to be repeated or that it causes you any major issues.
Happy surgery worked for you i had same levels November 2019 then covid hit UK hard beginning 2020 so i never had follow up untill 2022 I never had physical therapy because of covid it was never mentioned to me I'm not even sure if you are ment to have brace what i was never given no physical therapy can someon tell me if these things were ment to happen as I'm now waiting on correction surgery just wondering if these are reasons for failed surgery I'm not wanting to scare anyone i was just unfortunate to have surgery just before covid shut hospitals and places down hear in the UK i would never blame hospital for no follow up as no one ever thought something like covid would take us to our knees .. sorry was long post just looking for some answers xx
I have one month to go in my neck brace, I have to wear mine a bit longer due to some complications from C4-7 ACDF and I've got my low back to address next. I heard you state you get people into IT field? I was taking Google cyber security certification in hopes of getting off Social security Disability and doing quite well until my headrest on my Jeep Patriot exploded on me just shutting the door, I didn't even know there were defective exploding headrests, reportedly around 120# of force deploying 3 times faster than an airbag, a little PSA for those with neck issues. I suffered a tbi too in addition to needing the neck fusion and aggravated and made my low back worse I already had a cage in. I thought I was hit in the head from someone hiding behind me and twisted proceeded to try and fight back, but nobody was there. Anyrate I've came a long way with my Tbi, memory and speech therapy, I'm not expecting to be able to hold down my 98,8 gpa I had before the headrest exploded but I can retest and take as much time as I need if I re enroll.. I really wan't to get off Social Security Disablility My question is if I progress enough, is it realistic if I get all my Google certifications I'll be able to find a gainful job I can work from home in cyber security? At this point I don't think it's going to be realistic I'll be able to drive to a day job between the low back and ACDF that wasn't able to address all the damage, my surgeon says I have a long way to go. I will say it is great to not be all lit up in the arms and hands with nerve pain, like you said. Thanks for the inspiration.
I'm fused from c4 to c7. My mobilty is awful. I went to therapy for 6 weeks, did all the stretching, did not help. Constant muscle soreness in my neck when turning it. I've lost about 70% mobility. Cannot look up or down hardly at all. Left and right is really bad...hard to pull out when driving without getting ran over. I had a massage twice. The first time I gained about 15 to 20% of my mobility back for the rest of the day. The next day was like I never had the massage. The 2nd massage a month later did nothing. Cannot sit in front of a computer for very long at all.This is so depressing. It's ruined my life. I wish the fusion could be reversed.
Hi Thank you for your videos, it helps a lot. I am not sure if you mentioned it or missed it. Did your surgeon used a front plating for fixation? After a couple of years do you have a sensation or you feel the plate in the back of your throat especially when eating or bending your neck back and forward?
1 month post op tomorrow. I still have the neck tightness and some nerve pain going thru both shoulders. Sleeping flat still a problem. I wish you health and recovery
@Zzocul man, I wish I was better. My neck and left shoulder are great. My right shoulder hurts the same as day of surgery. Sleeping is great besides rolling onto that right shoulder. Im 5 months out, my PA ( works for surgeon) said 6 months pretty common to have similar nerve issues, some folks take over a year to feel ( out of pain) I find myself wishing I knew some people who had this surgery so I could ask questions bout their experience. I'm hoping for best still. Im 1000% better than pre surgery but not healed. Sleeping has been amazing, presurgery I was getting maybe hour day. So 8 hours is truely amazing
@leereid4299 I have to undergo to a similar surgery soon. I'm in the state where I get no sleep and Im in constant invalidating pain that bedriddens me 24/7. If you don't mind I might comment again from time to time as I'm happy to hear you have had improvements and there is still room for even more healing. thanks for your testimony
Nerve pain is tricky. I was off the pain meds quickly. Ive been unable to stop the muscle relaxers or gaba pentin. Moving, touching, rolling onto all hurt still. I have if I'm honest done too much, lifted something too heavy or a repetitive task that ends up hurting 1000% worse for few days. So recognizing my limitations has been challenging. I wish everyone luck that needs this surgery. It's scary!
It's going to take time. Walk, drink enough, eat fruits and maybe tynol. wish you quick recovery and I am still fixing things will update after one month
Had ACDF surgery in my neck and worst decision ever. I had serious complications and became paralyzed and had to have an emergency surgery then went into a coma. I feel the surgeon made a mistake by fusing two joints in lieu of one. Now I can’t work and am in constant pain. He said I wasn’t a candidate for artificial disc, which made no sense to me.
Were you ever recommended an Endoscopic Lumbar Discectomy or OptiMesh®Expandable Fusion System instead of the ACDF fusion? Just curious as these two procedures a much less invasive and recovery time.
I've done my c6/c7 in November. Have been okay since then and I was not taking pain meds anymore but now I am in a terrible pain right where the procedure was done. 💔Back on meds, I pray it's not a failure procedure. I will go see the doctor as the doctor reopen 2nd week of January
I had my c7-t1 fused. Has very minimal pain for the first 7 weeks after. Now from week 7 until week 11 I have had bad upper back pain and minimal arm pain. Anyone else has a c7-t1 surgery that can give me any info on this being normal. I’m having upper back muscle spasms and tightness
@@fritootr hey, better these days. Still have some weird pains and numbness in certain spots randomly. But the sharp pains and muscles issues did ease a lot at around month 5. I stopped rehab but returned to work in construction and I think moving helped a lot once my body was ready. I still Have disc issues in a bunch of other cervical discs and am doing a nerve conduction study soon to try figure where the nerves have issues. But overall I feel okay and aren’t in major pain anymore
Is it okay to have fusion or artificial disk replacement at C5-C7? Of course, the doctor decision to do that but I'm looking for ppl who went through process and experience. What about after surgery? Need to be careful in my entire life ? Still not married ( age 34)! Can anyone went through the process? So that I can message you personally to get more details. Thank you for your kindness in advance.
I did fusion just because I trust my own bones more then artificial. After surgery you will not do anything but just light walk and small things but make sure to consult with doctor before you do anything extensive. Some people will have great result and for some it takes time. Mine is taking time but not stopping me from daily thing's. I will share video soon
@@Jobskillshare thanks much for sharing, but what about life after recovery time ? One's self cant take care during recovery time as a person is staying alone and doing the Job
I had acdf for c5-7 eleven weeks ago. I started PT in my fourth week after surgery, this is very important! I have pretty much full range of motion and my PT says I am ahead of others for range of motion. My surgeon used three self locking stand alone PEEK cages instead of a plate. I did not ever wear a neck brace unless I was in a car for safety. At eleven weeks I still have some neck pain, but never need pain pills. This is from the muscles in my neck adjusting to the new space created in my neck. I highly recommend using the stand alone cages. I have pretty much full range motion. I am 69 years old. My doctor was Dr. Phelps in North Richland Hills Tx. He is famous for this surgery in this area. I no longer have nerve pain down my arm, so it was worth it. I will stay in PT as long as my PT says it is necessary. I am pretty much back to my normal life, but sore neck muscles at the day's end, which is normal. I hope you have good luck with your surgery.
It has been a year, do you still have any pain, numbness, or weakness? are you able to move your neck normally? Do you regret getting the surgery? Base on how much pain you had before the surgery let say was 100%, how much pain do you have now ?
Had acdf surgery on my c5 c6 everything was going good for 8 months then had a pop in my neck again hospital cant see anything wrong but ive lost about 45% mobility and loosing bowl control ..... Idk what to do anymore
I had the same discs replaced with simplify disc, artificial discs and I'm still worse than before surgery, it's been 2 months and every since surgery I've had way worse and new left shoulder and finger numbness. Did it take you this long to heal? How are you now? Artificial disc replacement takes ½ to ¼ the recovery time they say so I think the surgeon screwed up...
It depends person to person mine also took longer and I still have pain it's a lot better from the first two months. The numbness also stayed for some time so I would say keep doing the light streches and wait for atleast 6 months. It takes time for some people. hope things get better for you as well.
Thanks man, turns out my surgeon didn't remove the BONE SPURS I specifically asked him numerous times about and I went out of my way to get CT scan and x-ray, which reveal them much more than MRI. Turns out, 80 to 85%" of acdf and social disc patients just need the much less invasive and costly "arthroscopic" bone spur removal but insurance doesn't pay for all of it (half usually, the surgical center if in network). Few surgeons do it but MANY claim falsely "minimally invasive" surgery.. Furthermore, you should note that 1) acdf pays twice what artificial disc pays despite taking the same time, effort and equipment 2) acdf has 80% chance of "adjacent disc disease" 8 to 10 years after acdf 3) which is why tADR is regarded as the new "gold standard" among the many Seattle science foundation lecturers for the 10 to 15 % that need more than arthroscopic bone spur removal (none will likely admit it not endoscopic specialists in CA, AZ, NM CO, TX, NY FL and Europe I've found, will do free consult remotely Took me a long long time to figure all that out, I hope you spread the word.
Thanks for the video I think it will help a little bit. January twenty fifth two thousand twenty four is my surgery. Hopefully it goes as good as it did with you. Because for me it's the same three Disk
I had the same surgery 4 years ago and i regret it unfortunately i am in so much pain still and i still cannot work I have crevicalcongenetic headaches daily i do not drive due to pain in neck movements. Has anyone here experienced pain after years after this surgery?
What's your ACDF now sir. Is that's better after 1 year. I have an accident in that I got surgery in C3/C4 its been 8 months. Is their any social or other network way to talk to you. I want to know to that ,the problems I we're facing now is same as others. Please reply.
I am doing pretty well still have some issues so I am going to get more scans done. I am usually available Linkdein can send voice www.linkedin.com/in/danishhaider-/
Hey how are i am also in it and i had also acdf c5 c6 . There was only pain of root nerves or myelopathy (herniated disc which presses the dpinal cord)?
I had both pinching nerve and bone closing in on spinal cord. After surgery I never had nerve pain which was worse but for some reason I had lots muscle pain I did therapy which helped but eventually went with epidural injection. I will update on results in a week
@@Jobskillshare so you got symptoms as spasm or tingling in you lower body (because i had this ) but maybe we want to make a new surgery on the level below the acdf (which was already herniated but the acdf make the level above worse (due to the fusion which make hyper pressure on the others disks...))which is again against the spinal cord... But for now majority of surgeons won't do it
I broke my neck and can't even get a freaking painkiller even though the nerve pain in my hand is really bad. Because of the government harassment with the Secret Service I end up falling off of wall in Georgetown Washington DC had emergency surgery on my neck I'm barely got a painkiller I don't know what the hell went wrong with this country
If anyone would like to speak about the current situation etc we can do voice on LinkedIn www.linkedin.com/in/danishhaider-/
One month post surgery for same levels. Felt great the night of surgery and I had very little discomfort for the past month. I’m shocked that it was so easy for me. Don’t regret it and wish I’d have done it sooner. Good luck to anyone facing the same procedure.
7 weeks after ACDF surgery and the doctor cleared me to lift 10kg+.. Back driving my truck and I feel great.. Glad to have my life back.
I had a C4-5-6 ACDF surgery the third week in October. I'm coming up on my 3-month check-up the last week in January, 2023, and I'm hoping my surgeon gives me the green light to resume all physical activities. Like Danish, I'm still experiencing muscle tightness all over my body because I was restricted from doing anything physical for basically 9 weeks - the worst of which was not raising my arms above my shoulder/head, or turning my head excessively. I was extremely active prior to the surgery, and to go cold turkey on exercise, my body just tightened up. Once I get clearance from my surgeon, I'll start a stretching/strengthening program with a PT and massage therapist. Also, I fully agree with what Danish said - despite all of what I've been through with the surgery, I'm so glad I had it done. I had a fabulous surgeon, and he and his PA told me exactly what to expect, and they were both spot on. Rule #1 - be patient. It'll take time to recover, but it will be well worth it. Good luck!
Thank you and wish you a healthy new year and let's hope we get back to normal activities sooner
I see it's been a year, how are you recovering? Does it still hurt and how is your neck mobility?
@@datsuntoyy I had the ACDF surgery in October, 2022, so it's been almost 18 months - and there is no actual pain. I'm back playing tennis, Pickleball, and all other physical activities I did prior to the surgery. However, despite the surgery being a success, I'm still experiencing a stiffer neck than before the procedure. But, in full disclosure, I wasn't as diligent in doing my stretching exercises as I should have been, initially. But, I've re-committed myself to doing the 5 simple neck stretches almost every single day, plus I'm receiving massage treatment from a qualified therapist, and my neck is much looser now than before. The therapist works on my trapz and my pec minor muscles, and these areas being tight will definitely cause a stiff neck. Slowly but surely I'm getting back to a better range of motion, but my surgeon told me ahead of time that I'd never have the total range of motion I had before the surgery.
@@scotthunt2479 Thankyou. Glad you're doing well. I'm not quite at the fusion stage but I fear it's close.
Success stories like yours make it easier for me to commit to it.
@@datsuntoyy Your body will tell you when it's time to get the surgery. Mine did. Never regretted a minute of it.
Thank you so much for sharing this! I’m getting ACDF surgery on C5-C6 in a month, and I’m nervous!
Me too same levels😢
@@marlenisabel4830what kind of problems do you have...Dr advised me for C6 and c7
Feel better Danish. Pray to the Almighty to grant you a speedy recovery.
I thank God you are getting better, wishing you a speedy recovery great teacher
Thanks for this. I'll have almost the exact same surgery in a month. Nice to see you up and around and enjoying life.
Danish, thanks for making the video, my heart goes out to you. Had the same procedure 11 days ago. Its just a long recovery process.
I'm wish you a speedy recovery. I'm glad you feel somewhat better.
This gives me some encouragement I need to have c4 through c7 done from a fractured neck back in 94, I healed up fine from that injury and was back to normal after about a year but as I got older osteoarthritis took over and has nearly completely stopped me from living a quality life, I have bad anxiety a depression and I know it's cause of my injury, I use to race moto cross and race stock cars and was very active and I realize I'm to old for that stuff now, at 53 years old, I can't even swing a golf club without severe nerve pain, and I am scared to death to have surgery but there will come a time I won't have a choice
53 is YOUNG !
Hey Tim - I'm 50 and have to sign the consent in a month for the same thing C4-7. my surgeon uses titanium disks. Did you get the surgery? Any feedback?
@@TomDeloge1 November 10th is my surgery
@@TomDeloge1 Had acdf surgery last Friday c4 c5 c6 was from the front and fecet implants in from the back side its going on 10 days and its been extremely rough, that fecet surgery is a killer I have extreme surgery pain between my shoulder blades, and am on strong pain killers and muscle relaxers and barely cuts the pain, I hope it gets better, and I'm having to wear this neck brace for 6 weeks, its driving me nuts
@@timharris7425 I hope your pain is gone or at least subsided some. I have same surgery February 2023 and here it is August 2024, and it has started to fail, and it shows that it's damaged my C3.
You look thinner in a very good way. Wishing you continued recovery and a happy and healthy future.
Thank you for the update. I'm so happy to hear that you are doing well. I also have weakness in my arms. The positive for me after 30 days is I have more movement in my neck than I have had for two years and the constant pain has been relieved already. unfortunately the numbness in my dominant hand has not changed as the surgeon hoped it would. The change in the stiffness and pain in my neck has made it all worthwhile though.
Hi Joy. I had same issues and am 2 months post op. I still have a very numb finger. Doctor said it may or may not come back. The discomfort through my arm and shoulders was resolved right away. Blessings. Thanks for sharing
Nerve pain is no joke, it’s this terrible radiating pain kind of like ringing a gong. I had ACDF on my C5-6 in June 2022 and I’m so happy that I did. I was in so much pain before the surgery but now I feel awesome.
Thank you for sharing! I’m 39 and doing an ACDF on C5-C6 in a month, and I’m very nervous about possible new pain, or all issues not being resolved and still having constant muscle stiffness.
I’m curious, were the muscles in your neck always inflamed and super sore, like they were doing the majority of the work to support your head? This started for me at 17 years old, and I literally don’t think there has been a single day in the past 22 years where I haven’t been aware of my neck pain.
@@NelleWood I actually only had pain in my shoulder for years, no neck pain until about 2 weeks before my surgery. I was very shocked when my Ortho told me it was the discs in my neck that were degenerating and compressing on nerves causing the shoulder pain. When I did experience neck pain (I was already scheduled for the surgery) it felt like I couldn’t hold my head up at all! I also could only lay down on my left side.
I also would experience more shoulder pain when I was driving but nothing when I was sitting in a “regular” chair.
For me, I have not experienced any issues after the surgery; no limited range in my movements, no more nerve pain, it’s so awesome!
Everybody is different but I highly recommended the surgery.
The only thing that totally sucked was having to wear that neck brace nonstop for a month. Thank god I already owned a Lazy-Boy type recliner because that was the only way I could sleep and function lol … You basically cannot “lay down” with the neck brace on so you gotta be “propped up” with a lot of pillows if you’re in a bed. And just getting in and out of a bed even when you’re propped up kinda sucks so the recliner helped a lot. I was basically parked out in my living room with a couple of pillows and a blanket until I was able to remove the neck brace after a month.
I also highly recommend getting bendable drinking straws when you’re wearing the brace because you’re not able to tip your head back when you’re drinking.
I hope that helped even though that was just my experience. I’ve only known 2 other people who’ve had the surgery, my Ortho doctor and my godmother and they’re both happy they had it.
Take care Danish. Hope u have a speedy recovery
I wasn't aware of your issues, but you look and sound great! Keep it up!
I'm glad you are well, you are such a nice guy
Just had my surgery 3 weeks stiffness yes . I'm glad less pain ty
Thanks for sharing. I had c5-6 in May and this past week I feel like something is jabbing into my throat and pain has resurfaced. Hopefully it will resolve soon. Glad to hear you have made progress. It’s tough being on the younger side and being limited physically. Hiking with my dogs helps me mentally. 🙏
Ty for posting this update...I just had my ACDF surgery this morning and I'm in A LOT of pain 😢😢😮😮
I am 2 months post-op for C5-7. It was no joke. I ended up in the hospital for 3 days post-op. I also will say I didn't have immediate relief of symptoms. So don't get discouraged if that's you. The one thing no one warned me was that there can be an emotional backlash the week after surgery. It's alot to cope with. I just started back at work this week. I'm glad I gave myself more time before going back. I needed it. I'm only working half days and it's hard. But I'm determined to get back to doing what I love to... ballroom dancing!
@dancingninja4678 😮😮😮 hope your even better now. 6mo laying in bed meds and ice waiting for doc appts and clearances for surgery. Super depressing and anxious. Can't walk more than 20 ft. I pray your good now. Sure hope ican handle recovery and I can get out of pain.
I pray everyone gets the help and healing they need. 🙏🏽🙏🏽🙏🏽
Feel better soon❤
I did it yesterday, how are you doing now?
Having same exact C5 thru 7 surgery next Friday apperciate this as i am nervous your video helps shed some light and proves there is some at the end of the tunnel. Thank you
I had C3,4,5,6 disc replacement and grafts with plates, straps, and screws on 5/9/2024. Today, 9/23/2024, was my first decent day. The nerve pain in my neck is gone, but the muscular pain has been relentless. PT caused severe pain the following day. I completed 2 months of PT last week. I've started acupuncture hoping for relief. Water aerobics, swimming, long hot showers, heating pads, and my Shiatsu heated massager have helped. I am five months and two weeks post op and I think I am finally turning a corner. I'm seriously considering not having a fusion on L4, 5, Si 1 until it is absolutely required. I'm interested in peoples' experiences with lower spinal fusion.
Prayers to you, keep up the great work!
I had an ACDF 11/23/2022 C4 through C7. I walk 3 miles a day. I started therapy 1 month post. It really helped
Any update please? I’m having this soon
Glad to see you are well Danish ! Take it easy 👍
I’m getting ready for my Sur & you’ve helped me to be ready…
Wishing you all the best 👍
How are you feeling know mspink please help i have same issue
Thanks for this video it just encourage me alot, i was very worried cause i had a booking for C5 to T1 surgery ahead and my mind was not at peace...it just take alot of my shoulder..
Thank you for update. Wish you all the best. 🙏
The pains you described are what I’m already dealing with along with the nerve pain. I hope I can hold my phone normal again. :( I wish you all the luck. I pray I can get back to work.
I’m about to have this and I’m so nervous. Ty for your imput
Me too😢😢😢
Thanks for the info.iam getting ready to get cervical spine surgery c5 c6.god bless you brotha
I just had surgery on Monday. Thank you so much for sharing your story!
hope you are very well now.. how are you now, how was the surgery and can you give me little details here about your surgery please..
Assalaamulaikum
May Allah SWT give you quick shifa. Ameen
I had 4,5, and 6 done with ACDF surgery in February 2023 and I was fine for over a year but now the fusion plate is coming undone so I have to get surgery again. Both sides of neck and back of neck are in so much pain and it is causing pain in right arm and both hands. Hurst so much I am lucky to average 3 hours of sleep a night.
😢😢😢 truely hope you recover good this time. I'm on ice waiting for surgery. Alone anxiety and fear. Had c4c5 14 yrs ago after a brutal attack. Now c6c7 and bad stenosis. Can't walk for 6 mo. Laying here waiting. I'll think of you and pray for you
After surgery, my plate "settled", (it dropped but the surgeon avoided that word). The surgeon did not check for osteoporosis prior to surgery. It turns out I do have osteopenia. I'm sorry to hear your procedure has to be corrected. My surgeon is xraying me every three months to make sure he doesn't have to repeat my procedure. In the meantime, I am focusing on strengthening my supporting muscles, exercising, eating a diet high in calcium, Vit D, and C, and getting plenty of rest. Take care of yourself and be patient with the process. It isn't easy!
@@sharonwessman9638 It seems I was misspeaking. It has micromovements which means it is not enough movement to do the surgery. I was hoping to be able to avoid heavy medications, but I likely will not be able to. I hope yours does not have to be repeated or that it causes you any major issues.
I just had 6 and 7 done With some kind of cage 3 days ago Swallowing sucks
Pls share video on recovery 6month and 1 year after surgery
Happy surgery worked for you i had same levels November 2019 then covid hit UK hard beginning 2020 so i never had follow up untill 2022 I never had physical therapy because of covid it was never mentioned to me I'm not even sure if you are ment to have brace what i was never given no physical therapy can someon tell me if these things were ment to happen as I'm now waiting on correction surgery just wondering if these are reasons for failed surgery I'm not wanting to scare anyone i was just unfortunate to have surgery just before covid shut hospitals and places down hear in the UK i would never blame hospital for no follow up as no one ever thought something like covid would take us to our knees .. sorry was long post just looking for some answers xx
I have one month to go in my neck brace, I have to wear mine a bit longer due to some complications from C4-7 ACDF and I've got my low back to address next. I heard you state you get people into IT field? I was taking Google cyber security certification in hopes of getting off Social security Disability and doing quite well until my headrest on my Jeep Patriot exploded on me just shutting the door, I didn't even know there were defective exploding headrests, reportedly around 120# of force deploying 3 times faster than an airbag, a little PSA for those with neck issues.
I suffered a tbi too in addition to needing the neck fusion and aggravated and made my low back worse I already had a cage in. I thought I was hit in the head from someone hiding behind me and twisted proceeded to try and fight back, but nobody was there.
Anyrate I've came a long way with my Tbi, memory and speech therapy, I'm not expecting to be able to hold down my 98,8 gpa I had before the headrest exploded but I can retest and take as much time as I need if I re enroll.. I really wan't to get off Social Security Disablility My question is if I progress enough, is it realistic if I get all my Google certifications I'll be able to find a gainful job I can work from home in cyber security?
At this point I don't think it's going to be realistic I'll be able to drive to a day job between the low back and ACDF that wasn't able to address all the damage, my surgeon says I have a long way to go. I will say it is great to not be all lit up in the arms and hands with nerve pain, like you said.
Thanks for the inspiration.
I'm fused from c4 to c7. My mobilty is awful. I went to therapy for 6 weeks, did all the stretching, did not help. Constant muscle soreness in my neck when turning it. I've lost about 70% mobility. Cannot look up or down hardly at all. Left and right is really bad...hard to pull out when driving without getting ran over. I had a massage twice. The first time I gained about 15 to 20% of my mobility back for the rest of the day. The next day was like I never had the massage. The 2nd massage a month later did nothing. Cannot sit in front of a computer for very long at all.This is so depressing. It's ruined my life. I wish the fusion could be reversed.
Sorry to hear. Don't give up. Prayed for you 🙏
Thank you.
Hi Thank you for your videos, it helps a lot. I am not sure if you mentioned it or missed it. Did your surgeon used a front plating for fixation? After a couple of years do you have a sensation or you feel the plate in the back of your throat especially when eating or bending your neck back and forward?
Bravo. Way to go.
1 month post op tomorrow. I still have the neck tightness and some nerve pain going thru both shoulders.
Sleeping flat still a problem.
I wish you health and recovery
how you doing now?
@Zzocul man, I wish I was better. My neck and left shoulder are great. My right shoulder hurts the same as day of surgery.
Sleeping is great besides rolling onto that right shoulder.
Im 5 months out, my PA ( works for surgeon) said 6 months pretty common to have similar nerve issues, some folks take over a year to feel ( out of pain)
I find myself wishing I knew some people who had this surgery so I could ask questions bout their experience. I'm hoping for best still.
Im 1000% better than pre surgery but not healed. Sleeping has been amazing, presurgery I was getting maybe hour day. So 8 hours is truely amazing
@leereid4299 I have to undergo to a similar surgery soon. I'm in the state where I get no sleep and Im in constant invalidating pain that bedriddens me 24/7. If you don't mind I might comment again from time to time as I'm happy to hear you have had improvements and there is still room for even more healing. thanks for your testimony
Nerve pain is tricky. I was off the pain meds quickly.
Ive been unable to stop the muscle relaxers or gaba pentin. Moving, touching, rolling onto all hurt still.
I have if I'm honest done too much, lifted something too heavy or a repetitive task that ends up hurting 1000% worse for few days.
So recognizing my limitations has been challenging.
I wish everyone luck that needs this surgery. It's scary!
Allah aap ko sifa de.. aur sari taklif dur kare .
We have the same surgery now it's my 10 days and slowly recovering and still have the pain in my left shoulder
It's going to take time. Walk, drink enough, eat fruits and maybe tynol. wish you quick recovery and I am still fixing things will update after one month
May God continue to give you recovery. Thank you for sharing. Very encouraging video.
Had ACDF surgery in my neck and worst decision ever. I had serious complications and became paralyzed and had to have an emergency surgery then went into a coma. I feel the surgeon made a mistake by fusing two joints in lieu of one. Now I can’t work and am in constant pain. He said I wasn’t a candidate for artificial disc, which made no sense to me.
I wonder about the side sleep vs Back Sleeping issue
Do they recommend back sleep position after surgery
Were you ever recommended an Endoscopic Lumbar Discectomy or OptiMesh®Expandable Fusion System instead of the ACDF fusion?
Just curious as these two procedures a much less invasive and recovery time.
Thank you for the update
I have my hopes up
I've done my c6/c7 in November. Have been okay since then and I was not taking pain meds anymore but now I am in a terrible pain right where the procedure was done. 💔Back on meds, I pray it's not a failure procedure. I will go see the doctor as the doctor reopen 2nd week of January
Hope you feel better and praying it's not a failure. did you completed all therapy? and please keep us updated 🙏
Did they give you any muscle relaxers to relax the neck ?
I had my c7-t1 fused. Has very minimal pain for the first 7 weeks after. Now from week 7 until week 11 I have had bad upper back pain and minimal arm pain. Anyone else has a c7-t1 surgery that can give me any info on this being normal. I’m having upper back muscle spasms and tightness
How are you doing?
@@fritootr hey, better these days. Still have some weird pains and numbness in certain spots randomly. But the sharp pains and muscles issues did ease a lot at around month 5. I stopped rehab but returned to work in construction and I think moving helped a lot once my body was ready. I still
Have disc issues in a bunch of other cervical discs and am doing a nerve conduction study soon to try figure where the nerves have issues. But overall I feel okay and aren’t in major pain anymore
May ALLAH give you a full recovery and get well soon Insha-ALLAH
Is it okay to have fusion or artificial disk replacement at C5-C7? Of course, the doctor decision to do that but I'm looking for ppl who went through process and experience. What about after surgery? Need to be careful in my entire life ? Still not married ( age 34)!
Can anyone went through the process? So that I can message you personally to get more details. Thank you for your kindness in advance.
I did fusion just because I trust my own bones more then artificial. After surgery you will not do anything but just light walk and small things but make sure to consult with doctor before you do anything extensive. Some people will have great result and for some it takes time. Mine is taking time but not stopping me from daily thing's. I will share video soon
@@Jobskillshare thanks much for sharing, but what about life after recovery time ? One's self cant take care during recovery time as a person is staying alone and doing the Job
I had acdf for c5-7 eleven weeks ago. I started PT in my fourth week after surgery, this is very important! I have pretty much full range of motion and my PT says I am ahead of others for range of motion. My surgeon used three self locking stand alone PEEK cages instead of a plate. I did not ever wear a neck brace unless I was in a car for safety. At eleven weeks I still have some neck pain, but never need pain pills. This is from the muscles in my neck adjusting to the new space created in my neck. I highly recommend using the stand alone cages. I have pretty much full range motion. I am 69 years old. My doctor was Dr. Phelps in North Richland Hills Tx. He is famous for this surgery in this area. I no longer have nerve pain down my arm, so it was worth it. I will stay in PT as long as my PT says it is necessary. I am pretty much back to my normal life, but sore neck muscles at the day's end, which is normal. I hope you have good luck with your surgery.
Nice Vid! How long did it take you to move your head left/right post op surgery?
Thank you for this video!
It has been a year, do you still have any pain, numbness, or weakness? are you able to move your neck normally? Do you regret getting the surgery? Base on how much pain you had before the surgery let say was 100%, how much pain do you have now ?
Gracias, saludos desde Puerto Rico😊❤
How you doing now?
Please give update
How long did you wear your neck brace for? I just got my c4 to c7 done. I walk along but this neck brace is killing me.
Just few days but ask your doctor.
Had acdf surgery on my c5 c6 everything was going good for 8 months then had a pop in my neck again hospital cant see anything wrong but ive lost about 45% mobility and loosing bowl control ..... Idk what to do anymore
How are you doing?
Would neck cover help to get rid of muscle spasm?
I had the same discs replaced with simplify disc, artificial discs and I'm still worse than before surgery, it's been 2 months and every since surgery I've had way worse and new left shoulder and finger numbness. Did it take you this long to heal? How are you now? Artificial disc replacement takes ½ to ¼ the recovery time they say so I think the surgeon screwed up...
It depends person to person mine also took longer and I still have pain it's a lot better from the first two months. The numbness also stayed for some time so I would say keep doing the light streches and wait for atleast 6 months. It takes time for some people. hope things get better for you as well.
Thanks man, turns out my surgeon didn't remove the BONE SPURS I specifically asked him numerous times about and I went out of my way to get CT scan and x-ray, which reveal them much more than MRI. Turns out, 80 to 85%" of acdf and social disc patients just need the much less invasive and costly "arthroscopic" bone spur removal but insurance doesn't pay for all of it (half usually, the surgical center if in network). Few surgeons do it but MANY claim falsely "minimally invasive" surgery.. Furthermore, you should note that 1) acdf pays twice what artificial disc pays despite taking the same time, effort and equipment 2) acdf has 80% chance of "adjacent disc disease" 8 to 10 years after acdf 3) which is why tADR is regarded as the new "gold standard" among the many Seattle science foundation lecturers for the 10 to 15 % that need more than arthroscopic bone spur removal (none will likely admit it not endoscopic specialists in CA, AZ, NM CO, TX, NY FL and Europe I've found, will do free consult remotely
Took me a long long time to figure all that out, I hope you spread the word.
Thanks for the video I think it will help a little bit. January twenty fifth two thousand twenty four is my surgery. Hopefully it goes as good as it did with you. Because for me it's the same three Disk
Update video.. do you still feel numbness in the fingers.
I had the same surgery 4 years ago and i regret it unfortunately i am in so much pain still and i still cannot work I have crevicalcongenetic headaches daily i do not drive due to pain in neck movements. Has anyone here experienced pain after years after this surgery?
Hi! I will have the same operation c5-c7 ACDF. Can You make video of Your range of motion after this 5 months?
I want to know about swallowing. I have medication that I take on a daily basis. How long before my throat is healed?
@@marcelened7864 Two to three days only first day is hard, eat soft food thanks
I am having it this month. I’m so scared but I’m always scared.
What's your ACDF now sir.
Is that's better after 1 year.
I have an accident in that I got surgery in C3/C4 its been 8 months.
Is their any social or other network way to talk to you.
I want to know to that ,the problems I we're facing now is same as others.
Please reply.
Hi, how’s your recovery going. I have to go in for c3-c5. Any advice
I am doing pretty well still have some issues so I am going to get more scans done. I am usually available Linkdein can send voice www.linkedin.com/in/danishhaider-/
How’s the swallowing?
How are you doing now sir?
How much the cost
Sir I have phobias I'm too much afraid of surgery 😢
I am happy to hear ur story but now i'm scared i'm scared my surgery was 5 days ago I don't wanna go though this for another 2 and 3/4 the months 😭
I've been going through this for 4 years still in pain after surgery you have a long road ahead good luck.
Get well soon Danish...
I had/have paraylsis and am 4 weeks post op of acdf c5-6, I'm probably gonna loose my typing job, do the disability laws come into play? tia
I believe it does but contact a lawyer that deals with this sort of situations
Hey how are i am also in it and i had also acdf c5 c6 . There was only pain of root nerves or myelopathy (herniated disc which presses the dpinal cord)?
I had both pinching nerve and bone closing in on spinal cord. After surgery I never had nerve pain which was worse but for some reason I had lots muscle pain I did therapy which helped but eventually went with epidural injection. I will update on results in a week
@@Jobskillshare so you got symptoms as spasm or tingling in you lower body (because i had this ) but maybe we want to make a new surgery on the level below the acdf (which was already herniated but the acdf make the level above worse (due to the fusion which make hyper pressure on the others disks...))which is again against the spinal cord... But for now majority of surgeons won't do it
Alhamdulillah
get Well soon Daanish
I just had this done the day before yesterday.
❤
"Three month's"??? Why do people think that apostrophes have anything to do with pluralization?
Wow. You must be really smart
I broke my neck and can't even get a freaking painkiller even though the nerve pain in my hand is really bad. Because of the government harassment with the Secret Service I end up falling off of wall in Georgetown Washington DC had emergency surgery on my neck I'm barely got a painkiller I don't know what the hell went wrong with this country