Do ai need neck surgery?

@nanny23
I am 55 and female and had neck surgery on c5-c6 due to compression of my spinal cord. If your disc herniations are pressing on your spinal cord, it can cause permanent spinal cord injury and symptoms and progress/worsen over time. An orthopedic spine specialist or neurosurgeon can advise what is best for your condition. I know it is scary to think of surgery on your spine at your neck but I was afraid more of the worsening spinal cord injury. I was losing control of my arms/hands/bladder and had difficulty walking. I have a new herniated disc at c6-c7 and most likely need surgery again in the near future. I am tired of having surgeries (had 4 in 2.5 years) but spinal cord compression injury is serious and falling could make it worse so I will get the surgery if my orthopedic surgeon recommends it (he did my neck and back surgeries so I trust him).

Thanks for answering my question. You have also had a lot of surgeries. I had hip replacement rotator cuff repair and knee repair so not happy about another surgery. I just don’t know till I see the actual surgeon. Went for new rests so will see what he says. How long was your recovery from your neck surgery? Stay well.

Dear Lynn Platt,
Thank you so much for sharing your experience. It's incredibly helpful to hear from someone who's gone through similar challenges, especially regarding spinal cord compression. Your story about the progressive symptoms and the decision to address the issue surgically resonates deeply.
I'm 75 and relatively active, but this recent car accident has left me with significant neck pain and, worryingly, bladder leakage. Your mention of bladder control issues as a symptom of spinal cord compression is particularly concerning and something I hadn't fully considered. Reading about your experience with multiple surgeries – four in just two and a half years – is understandably daunting, but it also provides a valuable perspective. I appreciate you being so open and honest about the difficulties.
I'm scheduled to see a specialist soon, and your account has given me a clearer picture of the potential issues and the importance of timely intervention. The prospect of neck surgery at my age is understandably nerve-wracking, but your experience has given me some courage and a renewed sense of urgency to prioritize my health. Thank you again for your time and your thoughtful response. I wish you all the best for your upcoming surgery and continued recovery.

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I was 77 last year when I had a neck surgery for herniated disc, bone spur, arthritis and I forget what else. She put a plate in there. Recovery was 2 weeks and I did not do PT. It was sore but no real pain. The neck brace for 2 weeks was annoying, but the whole process was not as bad as I expected and I live alone. Go for it. Make sure your surgeon is good. Interesting, I had a neurosurgeon, not an orthopaedic surgeon. Good luck!

@nanny23
The bladder leakage can definitely be tied to your cervical spine and you could lose permanent control of your bladder if the compression isn’t relieved before permanent damage. Spinal cord compression injury is spinal cord injury and symptoms can be felt below the level of injury.

My recovery from ACDF surgery on c5-c6 wasn’t too bad actually. Lumbar spine was really difficult in comparison. I needed bone spurs removed, disc was removed to relieve pressure on spinal cord, material was placed between vertebrae to help fuse the segments and hardware installed to provide stability. You cannot drive for a couple weeks and full fusion can take several months but I was able to get up and move around soon after surgery. You just need to make sure not to do any heavy lifting over 5-10 lbs and not do too much twisting. I wore a soft collar for a little while but they don’t want you to wear it too long since it can weaken your neck muscles.

Thanks again for your information. It is much appreciated

Wow!!! That makes me feel so much better. I do have a neuro surgeon. He is great. Good reputation. I was so scared today because of my age. You made me feel so much better. Thank you so much.