Post anterior cervical discectomy

[esee]

I had this surgery 6 months ago ... still cannot move neck completely.  Is this normal?  When is an exceptable amount of time before I call back my surgeon?  Oh, he did not prescribe physical therapy either...

[Jagdish Vishnoi, MD]

Hi,
Usually physical therapy is  recommended for this.Once you done with physiotherapist please get back to me.
Regards,

[esee]

Ther has NOT been physical therapy...the doc said it all would come back on its own, and I did not need it.

[Jagdish Vishnoi, MD]

Hi,
Anterior cervical discectomy with fusion is a surgery to remove one or more discs from the neck. The disc is the pad that separates the neck vertebrae; ectomy means to take out.Discectomy is combined with a fusion of the two vertebrae that are separated by the disc.This is because of fusion of vertebra normal movement of neck is not possible and patient is advised to adopt new movement pattrens of neck.Please consult your physical therapist for detailed of new neck movement techniues.

''Your therapist works with you on how to move and do activities. This form of treatment, called body mechanics, is used to help you develop new movement habits. This training helps you keep your neck in safe positions as you go about your work and daily activities. You'll learn how to keep your neck safe while you lift and carry items and as you begin to do other heavier activities.As your condition improves, your therapist will begin tailoring your program to help prepare you to go back to work. Some patients are not able to go back to a previous job that requires heavy and strenuous tasks. Your therapist may suggest changes in job tasks that enable you to go back to your previous job. Your therapist can also provide ideas for alternate forms of work. You'll learn to do your tasks in ways that keep your neck safe and free of extra strain.''
Reference:http://www.eorthopod.com/eorthopodV2/index
Regards,

[esee]

Sorry... it was the c6 c7 disc

[esee]

It was anterior cervical discectomy and fusion.  Done Dec 4, 2007.  Can turn neck some but not completely.  I will not get on the highway to drive because I can't turn to see on coming traffic with out adjusting my body because my neck is not able to turn like that.  My chin cannot touch my collar bone yet either.  I am a 35 year old female.

[Jagdish Vishnoi, MD]

Hi,
Please give details of your surgery and indication for the same.You should be able to move your neck in 2-4 weeks of time depending on type of surgery.Awaiting detailed information from you.
Regards,