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Anyone who has had Cervical spinal compression surgery
Spine Health | Last Active: Aug 15 9:49pm | Replies (57)Comment receiving replies
I fully understand your fears. I had C4-7 ACDF.
You will be just fine. Surgery, while it is major, will go easy. The frontal incision sound worse than it is and will heal quickly and with minimal pain and scarring.
First month have to take it easy as the fusion has to heal and attach. I am in belated therapy and have to work hard to maintain posture. You will be fine and the process sounds more scary than it really is. YouTube has a number of interviews with patients. Check them out
Replies to "I fully understand your fears. I had C4-7 ACDF. You will be just fine. Surgery, while..."
A couple add-on comments
1. I suggest you ask some hard questions on recovery time 6 months at least and maybe 12. Don’t let that salesman/Doctor snow you - when you are under for several hours recovery time lengthens
2. What should I expect in terms of a successful outcome - ability to walk , maintain posture, activities, stiffness and
range of motion. Will I feel normal, should I have therapy. Doctors don’t live inside your body and they are selling a perfect outcome. You have to be your own advocate and
Minimize surprises and maximize full disclosure.
Having said that the surgery sounds worse than the actual experience. You will be out and awaken to very positive feelings.
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Thank you for your reply. I truly appreciate you sharing your experience and I pray you continue to heal from yours. I will definitely look up the YouTube videos. I am trying to stay positive. I have a lot of pain from other health problems so the pain was and is a main concern for me. Thank you again for replying. I don't ever post anywhere so the support I have found on here is truly heartfelt.