[jayd10033]

#34996

Hello Doctor,

I had C5-C7 ADR in November. Total pain relief and resolution of weakness a few weeks after surgery.

I am now noting a familiar ache in the left scapular area and part of neck, but no weakness in arm as before.

Should I be worrying about new herniation or issues with the implants? Or is it normal following this surgery to occasionally still have an ache that comes and goes? It’s been about a week now.

Thanks you.

[Donald Corenman, MD, DC]

#34997

Some return of pain that is not intense or radiulopathic may just be some mild settling of the disc prosthesis and nothing to worry about. I would give symptoms another 1-2 weeks before any work-up is considered.

Dr. Corenman

[jayd10033]

#35002

Thanks – so I was at my ortho for a follow-up to my lumbar fusion (all good there for now!) – and mentioned my neck. We took x-rays, they were picture perfect in terms of disc placement. But the ache and some non painful/non-weakness sensation exists in my arm.

I am really nervous (and frustrated) because I went through this whole double disc replacement and now am having issues again.

It’s been about 3 weeks at this point with neck/scapular ache. At this point, unless there is loss of function, there is now way I would consider more surgery, I think I’d rather just live with the discomfort and hope I can learn to ignore it.

What would you advise as next steps? More imaging? Would cortisone help?

Thanks,
J.

[Donald Corenman, MD, DC]

#35003

I still think give it some time but if you want to work it up, flexion/extension lateral x-rays and a CT scan would be the next step.

Dr. Corenman

[jayd10033]

#35004

Thank you. The lateral flexion, extension xrays looked perfect. I’ll see if they recommend a CAT scan. MRI is not good with ADR’s if I recall correctly. I’ll keep you posted!

[Donald Corenman, MD, DC]

#35005

Great!

Dr. Corenman

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