Pain Returns After Cervical Fusion

[Paul1231]

I have cervical fusion at C5-C6 and C6-C7 last November. I have always had pain at the back if my neck but now it is worse. Also I have the pain, numbness and tingling in both wrists has returned which is progressively getting worse. My last Xray of the fusion was in January and I was told everything is good. The symptoms in my hands is almost all the time now and worse when I lay down (noticed when I wake up), hold a phone, just about anything. I have an EMG scheduled next week that will tell if my carpal tunnel is causing this but should I be worried that something went wrong with the fusion?

[af62]

I had to have a neck fusion of C2-C7 in 2015. I slipped on a patch of ice in a driveway which caused another problem. It took my breath away & I had to be carried into the building. This resulted in a "tweek" between C7-T1. Second fusion this year. But, that's not the end of the story. I developed a blood clot at the IV site. First it was a little bump (which is normal), within a week it grew & moved 1" up my vein in my left arm (IV site). Developed a bacterial infection. Tried everything to reduce swelling. It was extremely painful. Ultrasound shows "possible cellulitis". Finishing up antibiotics in 2 days. Next ultrasound in a couple weeks. So, I have the fusion pain like many of us have, taking meds & Aspirin (for blood thinning. Usually not allowed to take any anti inflammatory as it interferes with healing), prescribed by doctor. Heat seems to make it worse. I hope I don't have to go through anymore fusions after this. It's taking what I think, is much more time to heal. But then I am an independent impatient woman. I am a Veteran & the VA is taking care of me. I have severe Osteoarthritis practically everywhere in my body. I'm older & it seems to be age related, but diet & stress plays a part too. Looking forward to being able to do a little bit more each day, but can always tell when I am doing too much. There is a little bit of restriction of motion (expected), haven't tried driving yet, as I am about 4 1/2 weeks out of surgery. Overall, I believe this was the best option for me. I never did check into the Laser Spine surgery because I had to get this done pretty quickly. I have been suffering for years. Had a rough life. So, if there comes a point where it looks like I need more surgery I'm going to look into that. Recovery *****, muscles are weak, frustrated.

[noneck]

Something could be wrong with fusion, one of the levels may not have fused. That has happened to me and it was redone, and it took allmost 18 months to show up. unfortunalely you will probably need more time to tell. Also remember that fusions can cause more fusions because of the pressure on adjacet discs. Another M.R.I. may be in order to see if it fused and see if another level is involved. I am fused from C3 thru C7 and may need more, it can never end, keep doctors informed. Hopefully it's the carpel tunnel causing the numbness and tingling. We will always deal with neck pain, but when it turns into arm and hand problems thats reason to check whats going on. Good luck

Hope I help