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C5palsy
Any suggestions about lessening the pain in my neck, shoulder, and arm? Also, my right hand is almost always freezing cold, yet I have burning pain. I had a poster fusion from C3-T2, 3 weeks ago. I was just diagnosed with C5Palsy, 2 days ago. I am already in PT and OT. I take very strong pain medicine, actually 2, IR and ER, plus a muscle relaxer, and Gabapentin. I'm still in SO much pain, sometimes. So bad that I lie in bed crying my eyes out. Yes, I do use ice packs. I've tried heat but that seems to make the pain worse. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated. Thank you.
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Being only 3 weeks out, one would think more pain meds would be an option.
Do u have weakness in your shoulder and biceps? That might resolve since your surgery was so recent.
Once more time has gone by, if your pain is thought to be due to spasms, consider Botox. I have neck and central shoulder spasms after a C5-T1 fusion and decompression surgery. I used Valium for a while, but it began to affect my memory. Botox has been a godsend. They may want you to wait at least 6 months though. Ask about baclofen or Valium if you think it’s spasm related.
If you are allowed to get wet, a nice warm soak in the tub with Eason salts and whatever essential oils you find relaxing (I like lavender and lemon, or eucalyptus) might help.
If the burning pain is neuropathic pain, they make an OTC roll on lidocaine that you can use as often as you wish. I had limited luck with it. I attend PT at a Spinal cord only PT center and others have found great relief with it. Make sure to get the maximum strength. I have enclosed a pic from Amazon
C5C6 and C7 innervate the diaphragm. Are you having any shortness of breath?
Have hope that many of your symptoms will resolve as time from surgery increases, though it may never be as it was pre-op.
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2 Reactions@laura1970 Thank you. Yes, my right arm is very weak and feels extremely heavy. I can barely print or write. I have been using prescription strength lidocaine lotion, but it doesn't help much. Once my steri-strips come off and am cleared for baths, I will definitely give your suggestion a try.
Have u told your surgeon what is going on? I think they need to know
@laura1970 Thank you. I do have weakness in my shoulder and bicep. No shortness of breath though. I've tried the Lidocaine 4%, lotion and spray with no relief. I am on Flexeril 10mg 3xs/day. My pain doc just today, ordered Gabapentin 600mg 3xs/day. I'm hoping and praying that helps. I can take showers, but can't soak. Once, I can I'm definitely going to take your advice about the bath. I truly appreciate your advice. I'm willing to try almost anything at this point.