ACDF C4-C7 almost 4 years later
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- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 29 ก.ค. 2024
- Hi everyone.
Almost 4 years later
Here’s a quick update.
If you want my next video to be more Q&A post your stuff below this video bc I got lost going through the old videos to track down your questions.
Thank you again for following along and all the support and info. It’s definitely a longer journey than I anticipated
What can I tell you Kim. you are a superwoman. Dealing with all this pain and still be functional. I have been living cervical disc generation for 27 years due to a severe trauma to my neck. 27 years of non stop pain and suffering. Every spinal surgeon I have seen have recommended ACDF from c3-c7. Guess the only reason why I haven't done it was sheer fear from side effects. I have heard and read enough horror stories to keep me away. But desperation is a bitch. I think I am there now. I have no more fight in me. The headaches have become crazy 24/7. pain down my shoulder and knives going through my scapula. I found refuge however in some treatments that made thing a little bearable. I did an RFA from c2-c7 which helped a lot. Last week I did cortisone shots in my neck muscles for the headaches. They did give me relief. Three major muscles, the traps, the occipitals, and the splenius capitis ( the main culprit of cervicogenic headaches). I have been wearing a soft cervical collar to sleep which is doing wonders to relax my muscle spasms, and no pillow. Like you I'm on a cocktail of meds , ( muscle relaxants, Tramadol, and Lyrica). I only take them before I sleep , otherwise I'm a vegetable the following day. You're videos have been so helpful and so thank you for documenting your journey.
I guess, people like us have to take on the pain and just deal with it. We hear you're pain. We feel you're pain. We know. God bless and keep on living
Thanks for the update! Burn out on surgeries,Dr visits, and constant pain is a problem that unfortunately is relatable. It's hard sometimes to remain upbeat. However,I hope you can find the happy place you deserve and need. I hope you have good support of family and friends. You obviously have the support of us that follow your channel! Thank you so much for the warm , beautiful smile and personal insights. As always, stay positive and know that you are appreciated for sharing! 🌞😊
Thank you :) I do appreciate everyone's feedback.
Thank you for sharing your experiences. With all the uncertainty it's nice just to know there's other people that understand what you're going through.
You are so welcome!
I had ACDF c4-c7 in july 2023, still have pain and all kinds of complications, I appreciate your videos, they me give me insight on what i have to look forward to.
I hope you have better luck than me. I might be getting another surgery this year
Thanks for the kind response. I too am up for a C4 to C7 but not until early August, can't wait, the finger and shoulder pain are the pits. I hope you get that additional surgery soon and it gives you some well deserved relief. I'll keep you posted and will hold you in my prayers.
Thoughts 💭
1. Cervicogenic headaches
2. Since COVID lots of computer work = forward head posture
3. SCM as well a trapezius muscle tightness causing referred pain
4. Watch your posture/ screen time
Finally your strong 💪 courageous and a role model for many 😊
Best of wishes and prayers to you
Thank you ! Yes. I get massage to help w the tension and I usually have good posture but notice some forward leaning at times. Thank you
I hope you get some answers soon. Thank you for documenting your journey
I finally had c5-c7 after putting it off 2yrs. It was horrible pain afterwards and 6 weeks later starting to get numbness in left arm and hand with deep pain. Then the little strange things that happen. I’m glad you’re here so we can all know we aren’t alone. You’re so cute and positive also. Thank you
Aww. Ty!
I do hope you get ongoing relief. Im going the opposite way and will likely be getting surgery by years end
Kim, so sorry you are suffering. I am just now seeing a neurosurgeon for severe neck, spine and face pain. One thing you maybwant to check is to see if you have Eagle Syndrome and or ponticulus posticus. Praying for you miracle.
You poor thing, I'm scheduled for ACDF surgery and I just watched all your videos. I am so sorry to hear of all your pain and aggravation, and on top of it all you have tinnitus as I do. God bless you and I wish you a rapid improvement and some good health. On a side note, you're beautiful!
Thank you! I just got a neuro consult via jefferson and plan to meet with another neuro at upenn. I have having more issues and they are now concerning and I do believe that I will likely be having another surgery sooner rather than later unfortunately. I am sorry you are also in this place. It's not an easy decision. Please let me know how you make out and I wish for things to be positive for you
Oh Kim! I’ve been following your journey! You were such a comfort to me for my 6/22 ACDF surgery. Being a Jersey girl… although virtual~ I’ve felt a connection to you💜
Please look into the Lyrica (pregabalin)! There are other medications that some people do much better on. My personal experience, my symptoms continually got worse while on Lyrica ( the numbness, pains down the arm, the extreme weakness in my hands~ forget having any grip!)
I do hope you find answers, BUT MORE IMPORTANTLY, relief!!
Thank you for thinking of us with all your going through! You look absolutely beautiful, and I/we appreciate your updates!!
Thank you. It looks like I might have surgery this year. symptoms are worsening. What other med were you talking about?
How are you doing?
@@KimWright I’m sorry to hear you’re heading towards another surgery!! I can only imagine you just want to feel better by now! When I was on Lyrica, the side effect were worse than the pain it was treating. My arms and hand pain , weakness and numbness got much worse ( I have already had carpel tunnel surgery on both hands). I did much better on Keppra ( levetiracetam) . There are others too that may be more beneficial like amitriptyline, carbamazepine, doxepin, of course duloxetine or gabapentin. There are plenty of combinations…so don’t loose hope! I feel like I could run a pharmacy! LoL Prescription pain relief like meloxicam or diclofenac are beneficial too when otc just don’t cut it any more!! ( I hope you able to find some descent pain management!!)
As for me, unfortunately not long after my surgery, I was diagnosed with Lupus. Needless to say , life is never dull! I have no regrets having my ACDF 5-7 surgically stabilized!! That in itself made a huge difference for me, even though I know the arthritis in the surrounding discs have gotten worse…the relief is so much better!
I look forward to your updates!! I know the struggle of all the doctor appointments! Letting go of who we THOUGHT we would be at this stage in our lives! One day at a time ! You have a caring community here for you, cheering you on! Sending you gentle hugs and best wishes!!
Hi Kim, so sorry to hear about your continued problems. The neck is substantial because it connects the rest of our body. 366 days later from my C3..4 & 5 & I still have neuropathy on my left leg! No walker now but, just being careful when I walk. Please keep us informed. I'm worried about you😘💕
Im worried too... grr
thank you though
I hope you get faster lol :)
I'm sorry to hear you are having so many issues. I hope they get better or find a solution. I'm having 4-7 done next week. I have the headaches all day every day and nothing really helps. It's exhausting, I get it. I'm hoping my symptoms stop or get better but it is soooo scary.
I have watched all of your videos. To see how you have handled all of this has been so inspiring. I am lucky that my surgery seems to have been a success but the recovery was still much harder than I expected. Still though, so happy that it worked. Please keep the videos coming. I am sorry that you are going through all of this but you really are helping people. Wish you the best!
I am happy you found relief... Hopefully I get there after this next surgery
@@KimWright I hope you do too!
Hey, I'm just over 2 years post ACCF c3-5 and my symptoms haven't improved, so I feel your frustration.I wasn't believed by some of my treating team when I said a year ago that my symptoms weren't improving and after finally insisting on an MRI, I have a worsened C5/6 compression that needs a ACDF to prevent further worsening, but won't bring improvement. C spine symptoms have a constant and fluctuating presence that I think those of us with these injuries just have to accept and get on with......as frustrating as that is.
Thanks for sharing !
Thanks Kim for the update. I texted or commented about a year ago with my issues. I believe you commented not to pursue an ACDF unless necessary. I have also experienced what you experienced with your hand and fingers going numb and locking up. I'm leaning more to looking into a less evasive procedure with laser.
Thanks Kim again. Before I look into other surgical options, I think we'd both agree to research PT options first. Not saying it's the fix, just weighing different options. Your thoughts are are appreciated as always.
I watched all your videos. I hope you find relief.
Thank you
I had a cervical 4&5 laminectomy with fusion and ACDF all in the same surgery 22 months ago. It was a very successful surgery. All of my symptoms were eliminated. If I had it to do over again I would do it in a heartbeat. I had a Neurosurgeon do mine. Phenomenal surgeon. 30 plus years experience. I’m inclined to believe that the surgeon has a lot to do with a successful outcome.
Plz who was your surgeon
@@shellyscottsf Adam Brant. He is in Fresno ca. I live in California
Did he explain why he needed to also do the laminectomy? My neurosurgeon wants to do the front and the back and I am frightened. But I feel like it gets better results. I’m very confused. It seems very drastic.
@@carolineonline2112 The reason I had both was because of severe spinal stenosis (compression) on both sides of my spinal cord caused by the degeneration of C-4 & C-5. I was in a dangerous situation. I could not sustain a bad fall. It could cause paralysis. My surgeon told me that everything went beautifully with the surgery. A textbook case! I am so fortunate that I had the right surgeon. He had many years of experience doing these surgeries. It most definitely is a scary thing. But, for me it gave me back the dexterity in my hands, for one. I couldn’t tie my shoes or button my shirt. My signature was barely legible. I had the bladder issue and my balance was way off track. I recovered everything! It was amazing. I still get emotional sometimes when I think about it all. I love my neurosurgeon ❤️
@@carolineonline2112 Yes he did. The degeneration of C4, C5 was causing severe spinal stenosis on both sides. A bad fall could cause paralysis. MRI and CT scan revealed that I needed a discectomy as well as the lamina removed. I fit the criteria for surgery. Balance issues, loss of dexterity in my hands, bladder issues. After surgery the bladder issue was immediately resolved there in the hospital. My balance and dexterity in my hands followed suite. I’m most fortunate, so I’m told by my surgeon. He said it doesn’t always turn out this way. He said he couldn’t be more pleased with my recovery. He released me at 6 months post-op. That was March 15th 2023. The range of motion in my neck is likened to when I was in my 40’s. I’m 74 now.
Wishing you the best. I am going to have an ACDF in July... So many other things have been uncovered...it's a bit disheartening. Thank you for sharing, 🙏🏾 and wishing you the best
ugh.. please keep me posted. Im likely going in for another surgery sooner rather than later due to worsening issues.
@@KimWright that sucks. I hope things go well and that your overall health improves. 🙏🏽
Im having that "claw" thing also, but it comes and goes away. Week or two problems and then about two months ok. I would say that this is because of muscle atrophy, but I don't know. Also, those spasms in triceps and lower arms, they came and go in time. I'm sorry for what you're going through, hope that you get some relief.
Chiropractor hurt me more so I dont recommend. You cant just go to an orthopedic doctor for spine surgeries. They must be a neurosurgeon as well because of all the nerves surrounding the spine. So they deal with both bone and nerves. You really have to make sure you pick the right doctor for this type of surgery. Like open heart surgery you want the best and sometimes you may have to travel to get it like a vacation spot on you list.
This is a good+ truthful post.
I agree. I might be having surgery again later this year and its between 2 neurosurgerons now
@KimWright Canu say who they are you're choosing from?
I am getting ACDF in July. I appreciate your videos. I hope you can get some relief. When I had pulsating tinnitus, I found Magnesium supplements helped some.
I will look into that.. which version/type do you take?
@@KimWrightI used chelated Magnesium and it worked well with the pulsating part, I still have regular tinnitus. The pulsating drove me crazy.
Hi, Kim! Thanks for sharing your videos.. Wanted to know If you have any unnormal feelings also in legs/lower legs/foots due cervical stenosis?
I am recovering from an anterior cervical discectomy and fusion that I had about five weeks ago. The nerve pain has become very intense. While I'm unsure if the surgery was the right choice, I had been suffering from chronic pain for years. Now, my left shoulder, arm, and hand are in severe pain, including severe migraines and neck pain. 🤷🏽🤦🏽♂️🤯
ugh. I am so sorry. I just got a neuro consult via jefferson and plan to meet with another neuro at upenn. I have having more issues and they are now concerning and I do believe that I will likely be having another surgery sooner rather than later unfortunately. I am sorry you are also in this place. It's not an easy decision.
Not sure if you ever tried this but do "cervical traction" it could help with your symptoms. Sensations in the hand wise and neck
I had a Laminectory & Cervical Fusion 15mons again, I was cut in the back of my neck, still have alot of numbness in my rt forearm an hand, still getting headaches in the back of head, I go back 4 X-rays in Feb. 2025, sure hope to hear better news😂
I just LOVE you! and your videos! Thank you ❤
I also had acdf C4-7
You can come stay with me in Tucson Arizona anytime. Three bedroom, two bath, live alone, have a pool 😊 invite others, bbq, whatever 🤣
well that sounds amazing!!
Hi Kim it’s like you are describing me to a t
I’ve had c5-c7 acdf 2 years ago I also have pulsatile tinnitus and chronic daily headaches it really seems like all this stems from the cervical spine
Looking into the Saunders Home Traction Device 💯 Gonna get a script from pain NP this week! Hope your pain subsides! Seizing pain spasms when clutching silverware requiring more intense muscular strength. I get the ‘claw’ and frostbite episodes and sensations as well! Luv your description! 😂 thanks for the reference shout out 😉
:) Let me know how that device works!
Absolutely! Check out this devastating article
Look into Occipital headache. I had the same headaches as you describe. The doctors and neurosurgeon had nothing for it. I do know an excellent chiropractor and she resolved the Occipital region in less than one minute ie. Base of skull C1-C2. She mainly decompressed the muscles and ligaments. After 2 years with Occipital headaches to find someone that exactly knew what to do in less than an minute after all the MDs had known answers. I did not have C3-C7 surgery. The chiropractor has stabilized my spine. Since surgery you have had, chiropractic care requires a very special healer. Good luck.
I am so scared of them bc they are what set all this off
Thank U
@@KimWright I would ask a neurologist you trust to check the occipital nerves in C1 and C2. Finding the correct chiropractor is almost impossible as you already know. I was lucky. I had exhausted the MD route before I did. Mine was arthritic build up on the foraminal nerve openings that radiologist and neurosurgeon didn't see in my MRI's.
courage it's really sad I hope things go well
Thank you
Try a bite guard during sleep (and even during the day) from your dentist or orthodontist to reduce jaw and neck tension and tinnitus
Hey Thank you. I have one bc I clench and I wear it nightly :(
I had c2 to t2 I used ice wrapped in towel for the pain and headaches my biggest issue now is muscle spasms now my surgery was from the back. In September but I don’t recommend it I didn’t have a choice I lost a lot of movement in my arms and nerve damage
wait-- you had all that done? That is what I am looking at .. well c3 down... how are you? functional?
my next surgery looks like its from the back.. but laminectomy
It’s from the back 2 rods 14 screws plus they remove part of your backbone and I’m not functional basically in pain all day spasms when I try to sleep did get some feeling back basically stay in bed all day and night but I was in really bad shape Had to go to the ER because of spazzing and they did surgery next day had ossification from the top to the bottom .now doctors will not touch me . but now they want to see us a psychiatrist they think I have severe depression.
And that’s causing spasms
2 years since c5c6 fusion Uk Same!Same!Same!!!! Worse both arm symptoms than pre surgery! Nightmare. Exactly the same!
So sorry. Please get other consults.
I’m having similar issues but I’m also going through Perimenopause or menopause. The pain is so amplified there are days I swear my muscles are separating from the bone. I have numb arms and hands when waking up and tingling in my toes. It’s so not fun at all. 😢
YES!! SAME!
i wish you a full recovery. I have severe stenosis C4 to C7 and my insurance only approved one level surgery with disc replacement on C5 C6. i had it 3 weeks ago but it seems to have failed as no improvement but rather sever twitching added to the earlier list of issues. i can imagine what you are going through and what toll it has on the body and the mind. i don't think the insurance system is built to treat people properly. please try to get in touch with Deuk spine institute and send your images to them. DR Deuk had a very advanced tech that is super minimally invasive plus that he is a very reputable surgeon.
Hello. Thank you for this. I am sorry that your surgery failed. Did you use the dr duek?
@KimWright I contacted him but he doesn't work outside of the USA and I'm not currently there or able to travel soon. You can get in touch with them as they do free consultation remotely. I think I'm gonna have to deal with this one way or another. Maybe will go to Korea as they have some advance tech there.
I too have tinnitus 😢
Question, I am 8 weeks post-op a acdf C4-7 am I not supposed to take any ibuprofen any NSAID? For bone fusion? Because I have been and I just learned this, is this correct? What else can I do to make fusion more effective you know optimal?
Yeah. They said only tylenol for pain.
I guess keep up your protein, light stretches, bone broth, and behave. no lifting or straining or looking down to shave !!
Hello, sorry you've had so many issues with your ACDF. I have not had one....yet. I'm in the Lehigh Valley, a bit north of you. The neurosurgeon I have seen has recommended a 4 level ACDF. I'm not thrilled about fusion. I like to hike and be active. I am looking at getting some second opinions. Did you say you went to Jefferson? There are some docs there I researched and thought about contacting. Dr. Siva is one that I've been considering for several reasons. I also thought about Rothmans which is where I believe you said your ACDF was performed. This whole things is just frustrating. All the best to you....
Thank you. I went to an ortho at rothman. I just got a neuro consult via jefferson and plan to meet with another neuro at upenn. I have having more issues and they are now concerning and I do believe that I will likely be having another surgery sooner rather than later unfortunately. I am sorry you are also in this place. It's not an easy decision.
@@KimWright Were you pleased with the consult at Jefferson? I'd like to see if I'm a candidate for an endoscopic procedure. Dr. Siva who is leaving Jefferson for HSS was who I wanted to see.
@@charliejg I had a consult with Dr Yoon. up in Abington. I mean yes.. he had a different feeling about things than the original surgeon... but i am also getting a consult at upenn
yes. I did rothman but used an ortho. Now looking at jefferson and upenn for neuro
Laminectomy is no sweat. First 2 or 3 weeks is toughest. I haven't had a fusion yet. You can do it.
I think that is what I might be getting next bc my issues are worsening but Dr wants to do c3-c4 and put a cage in at c4-c5
but i think my issues are below my fusion.. going for anther consult soon
Are you available to talk to?
Have you ever considered if a chiropractor made you worse?
I definitely believe that they did. That’s when all of this started and what ended me up in the ER. But I was told it’s very difficult to sue chiropractors as well as Dentist lol
I’ll never go back to one
@@KimWright It's funny you say that because i am a Dentist! LOL. If there is fault, it's not hard. I have a C6-T1 issues and occasionally see your vids. I have some left hand issues with carpal tunnel. Be sure to get hand nerve study with the neck. My heart goes out to you, and i'll be watching and wishing you relief.
Hi Kim.. 3 years since my ACDF now. I'm still in full time manual employment buy as time goes on by Fridays I'm shattered and fatigued. I also started having thumb cramps and my left hand fingers constantly want to close or role up tight like a claw. I still have the numbness, pain and tingling in both hands . I find compression gloves help with the tingling and pain. My Gp suggested sleeping on my back with my arms straight or in braces which I find so hard to do been a side sleeper all my life and its just not practical.
My specialist had upped my gabbapentin dose which helps but makes me feel even more drousey . Constantly on pain killers, which is a worry..
Recently having tingling and what feels like frostbite in my right foot and toes .
When I can I still enjoy getting outdoors hiking and wildcamping and oddly when I have my backpack on my lower back pains go and I'm more stable on my legs.. Do I need a back brace to straighten my spine and give me better posture ? I don't know..
All blood flow and electro tests come back good so my hands is definatley a nerve and neuro issue.
Hope you find solutions to your issues Kim. 🤗
I'm now 54 and know I will need thurther surgery in time to come,. But for now whilst I'm still able, I'm doing what I enjoy and just block out the pain as best I can.
Looking good Kim and thanks for all your update videos since your surgery.. Takecare x
Omg...chiropractor LOL! they AREN'T Doctors...but they think they are. My experience...went to one...after car accident he insisted on 'popping' my neck. He did & herniated my C6-7. Immediately I had pain. 80% loss of triceps in left arm. Fusion 3 weeks later. Now 30 years later I needed C4.5 & 6! It weakens as time goes on. ..
Could be adjacent segment disease.
Definitely is but theres other stuff going on too :(
Become a youtuber. Make a video every day or week
haha.. The editing and being on camera is not something I like lol
I had a Laminectory & Cervical Fusion 15mons again, I was cut in the back of my neck, still have alot of numbness in my rt forearm an hand, still getting headaches in the back of head, I go back 4 X-rays in Feb. 2025, sure hope to hear better news😂
I had a Laminectory & Cervical Fusion 15mons again, I was cut in the back of my neck, still have alot of numbness in my rt forearm an hand, still getting headaches in the back of head, I go back 4 X-rays in Feb. 2025, sure hope to hear better news😂
Oh no..please let me know if you have other consults or what they recommend.. these headaches suck