Hello again Dr. Corenman.
On November 28th, 2013 I had an ACDF with cadaver bone (c4-c5, c5-c6 and c6-c7)surgery that took 7 hours. I no longer have pain or weakness in my hands and arms for which I am grateful. I was released from the Aspen collar yesterday and have had some physical therapy. My surgeon was not happy to hear that my therapists were having me turn my neck during sessions and said that it will take a 100% fusion down to 90%. The problem I am having now is the return of neck, shoulder and upper back muscle spasm with severe pain I am sometimes in tears. My surgeon told me that my pain cannot be that bad as the x-rays look perfect and should not have any pain at 4 months post op. Desperately I found a pain management doctor who did a Medial Branch Nerve Block who stated it may break the cycle of pain I have had for nearly 4 years. So far it has helped greatly, I hope it lasts while I work on strengthening muscles. I hope this was the right surgeon, he is known for working “miracles” Any thoughts on this pain would be once again appreciated.
P.S. I asked my surgeon about the c3-c4 level you mentioned and he said it is simply arthritis, everyone has some.
