Nearly 6 years & still suffering

Dear Forum

I am 47 years old. In 2012, I came off my bicycle and landed on my right elbow. Two months later I did the same thing. I suffered neck pain and some numbness in my left index finger. I visited an osteopath who examined me fully. They advised I go the the emergency room as they felt I had some issues at C5. I was put in a neck brace and had a CT scan. The Dr told me I had some changes at that level but it was normal for my age but if there were any worsening of my symptoms then I should return. I suffered on trying to work - I'd last a day and have to have the next off. Things did take a turn for the worse and I ended up collapsing at home and being taken to hospital in an ambulance. To cut a long story short, I has an anterior discectomy at C6-C7. Things improved but again I deteriorated. I insisted on a follow-up scan with the neuro team who told me not to worry, that things are ok. They were not. I had severe cord impingement at C5 and needed more surgery. After a failed ACDF due to complications in surgery, I had a laminectomy (this is the worst) at C5-C6. I have never been the same. Once sporty, I am in constant pain. Opiate dependant and on many other medications to help manage physical symptoms (eg pregablin) and for my mental health.

Nearly 5 years on after my last surgery and 2 years since insisting that things were once again deteriorating, I was referred to a brilliant surgeon who ordered flexion MRI scans. My spine is a mess and I am due in for ACDF from C2-C4. He does not think C1 will degenerate nor does he think C7-T1 will so he is leaving those alone.

I know the fusion works so I am not overly concerned with the op itself. My neck needs stabilising and then maybe I can have some quality of life - in that I am slightly less in pain and I am not worrying about paralysis. I was so happy that at last something was being done, I asked very few questions but my concerns are this:

What will the resulting ROM be with this fusion considering the previous procedures.

I do not have anything covering my spine at the back due to the laminectomy. I have skin obviously but there is no fatty tissue, the spinous process' were removed and the scar tissue is thin. When I lay on my back just the pressure from my pillow is enough to cause pain, numb arms, pins and needles...etc. Is there anything that can be done? For instance, could I have grafts of tissues placed there to offer protection?

How long does an ACDF at these levels take to carry out? (Roughly)

With my previous surgeries I did not wear a neck brace but my surgeon has said I will this time. Why this time? What is different?

Will I be able to drive?

Will I be able to do sport of any kind?

Thank you for reading my post.

SherlockBear

Hi Susie

Thank you you or your welcome and reply.

I have my surgery date of March 16th. I was originally told 3 - 4 weeks but the surgeon has said he needs the right team/support and that is the soonest he can get them altogether what with their schedules. That's OK though as it gives me time to prepare. The last operations I did not have so much time. I also have 2 dogs to think of this time which is concerning me. I live quite a way from family and friends so organisation is going to be key. I am already starting to buy the bits I am going to need in the first few days and weeks.

6 Years ago I had not heard of this condition/disease. I have suffered with pain since and it feels like forever but I have still tried to lead a normal life. I am never going to be pain free but I hope to have a reduction in my levels of pain and to get some sleep. This is the worst bit \i think, the broken, pain filled sleep and never waking up feeling refreshed.

I wonder about what ROM I will be left with. Will having a laminectomy in between the two fusion sites increase my range? I am guessing so. I have much reduced ROM now but that could be due to the current problems in the neck. I also wonder if I will suffer later with any thoracic or lumber problems. I have read so many people's stories of problems in those areas following or preceding cervical problems.

The pictures I saw at the surgeons office the other day told a grim tale. If I don't have more surgery the tale may be more so. Last May when I had one of the worst flare ups that I can remember, I had paralysis in my right hand. I do have full use back with some residual numbness, altered sensation and the usual pins, needles and burning sensation in both hands along with arm heaviness and pain. I am also getting symptoms in my left foot and in some more personal areas.

The recliner is a good idea. I am also looking at buying one of those reading (husband) pillows. Practical things also like getting the pharmacy to order my meds and deliver them. Last time I returned to "normal duty" quickly - too soon! I did not realise the gravity of the situation really as I was always so active and fit - I wanted to be that person again. I now accept that I am not going to be that fit person again but I can be a active and fit just in a different way.

I do not do these forum things but I needed to be around people who share this pain. On the outside we all look OK and it is hard to not behave OK too.

Thanks again and I will keep you posted on how it all goes and maybe I can help others too along the way.

SB