ACDF 4 months post op - new arm pain

Posted by reg1 @reg1, Dec 28, 2023

I had C-3 c4 fusion 8/23 and C4-C7 6/22. Adjacent segment was reason for second surgery and C4-c5 had to be cleaned up. After June 22 surgery 4 days after got severe arm burning pain which left my pointer finger semi - numb and up by trapezius. Now alll ofa sudden my arms and hand hurt - muscles and bones. The pain moves around and somedays are better than others. I also noticed sensory in forearm has lessened. Went to rhematologist - she thinks its like tendinitis. My back and neck have improved but now this arm stuff is scaring me. Going back to physical therapy next week. Any opinions about arm pain/ numbness. Thank you

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dhyun | @dhyun | Jun 3 2:50pm

Arm pain, burning sensations, numbness and changing symptoms after multiple cervical fusions can sometimes be related to lingering or recurrent nerve irritation, scar tissue, adjacent segment changes or musculoskeletal issues such as tendinitis, so while it's encouraging that your neck and back have improved, the return of arm and hand symptoms especially with changes in sensation deserves follow-up with your spine surgeon or neurologist, particularly if the numbness, weakness or pain is worsening; physical therapy may help if the cause is muscular or biomechanical, but given your surgical history, it would be reasonable to have the nerves and cervical spine reassessed if symptoms continue or progress.