You can get a reasonable idea of the chance of fusion via flexion/extension X-rays and if necessary, a CT scan. Some ACDFs will heal late but there can be some obvious signs that this fusion “might not take”. The C4 nerve root (C3-4 level) does not go below the shoulder and does not affect arm strength or motion (other than pain inhibition).
I let my patients use Advil after three months as the inflammatory portion of bone healing passes after three months and Advil affects only that stage.
Dr. Corenman
PLEASE REMEMBER, THIS FORUM IS MEANT TO PROVIDE GENERAL INFORMATION ON SPINE ANATOMY, CONDITIONS AND TREATMENTS. TO GET AN ACCURATE DIAGNOSIS, YOU MUST VISIT A QUALIFIED PROFESSIONAL IN PERSON.
Donald Corenman, MD, DC is a highly-regarded spine surgeon, considered an expert in the area of neck and back pain. Trained as both a Medical Doctor and Doctor of Chiropractic, Dr. Corenman earned academic appointments as Clinical Assistant Professor and Assistant Professor of Orthopaedic Surgery at the University of Colorado Health Sciences Center, and his research on spine surgery and rehabilitation has resulted in the publication of multiple peer-reviewed articles and two books.
