checking in after acdf c-4-7

I had my surgery on Thursday August 21. Everything went ok. C5-6 was way more damaged then what dr thought. Took a little over 4 hours to complete the surgery. Came home next day. Alot of discomfort in my shoulder blades.but it is better then what i thought it would be. Its a little sore to swallow yet.question i have about what to do when i feel around the incision is getting tight and swells up. Ice ? I dont have to wear the aspen collar all the time thank god. Its good to be home.

It's great to hear from you. Ice was also my best friend for quite a long time. Throat issues are very common for those who have anterior surgery.

What were you told about walking around your house? Is your pain well controlled? Some people want to rush back to doing too much too soon. Please let others help you now so you can heal well.

You have been given some great advice & I am with Abilene, I would ice the area. Take things sow & easy & above all listen t your body. If you start hurting take your pain medication immediately do not try to wait it out or think it will pass. Once the pain starts escalating getting it back to a decent level is tough.

Did your dr rx any muscle relaxers to you? Hurting in the shoulder blades is most likely muscle spasms going on. If you don't have any, call your dr tomorrow & tell him you are having bad spasms & need something for it.

Keep us posted on how you are doing.