I am 74 and have my C spine fused from C2-T1. I can still move my neck somewhat but had intolerable pain down both arms which the fusion eliminated. I would opt for restricted mobility over constant pain any day. . The fewer levels fused, the better motion will be. The healing time from surgery is short compared to living with a lifetime of pain. It only worsens with time if you do nothing. IMO. 83 isn’t too old if you’re active and reasonably healthy otherwise. It’s a tough decision but you will know when the time is right.
@retiredx3 Will you be seeking other opinions? There may be other factors that can affect the ability to heal after fusion surgery such as bone density and other health issues. It is worth asking other doctors if this is the case and if anything can improve your chances. Sometimes surgery isn't the best answer, and perhaps physical therapy can help ease symptoms a bit.
@retiredx3 Will you be seeking other opinions? There may be other factors that can affect the ability to heal after fusion surgery such as bone density and other health issues. It is worth asking other doctors if this is the case and if anything can improve your chances. Sometimes surgery isn't the best answer, and perhaps physical therapy can help ease symptoms a bit.
After 2 opinions with both being from same major medical school/provider, I will be seeking a 3rd opinion from a totally new doctor in a different organization. So far, no one evens considers PT an option. I'm at age 83, and previous to this debacle, have been very active in volunteering at 2 different places on a weekly basis. Currently all I see and hear is "your age".
After 2 opinions with both being from same major medical school/provider, I will be seeking a 3rd opinion from a totally new doctor in a different organization. So far, no one evens considers PT an option. I'm at age 83, and previous to this debacle, have been very active in volunteering at 2 different places on a weekly basis. Currently all I see and hear is "your age".
Just have to figure out which specialist, and find transportation to the other state. So tired of being told I'm toooooo old. Some people do keep active after 80.
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neuro cervical spine doc tells me I'm too old for successful C5-6 ACDF procedure. I'm 83 and was active until now.
I am 74 and have my C spine fused from C2-T1. I can still move my neck somewhat but had intolerable pain down both arms which the fusion eliminated. I would opt for restricted mobility over constant pain any day. . The fewer levels fused, the better motion will be. The healing time from surgery is short compared to living with a lifetime of pain. It only worsens with time if you do nothing. IMO. 83 isn’t too old if you’re active and reasonably healthy otherwise. It’s a tough decision but you will know when the time is right.
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1 ReactionSecond opinion??
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1 Reaction@retiredx3 Will you be seeking other opinions? There may be other factors that can affect the ability to heal after fusion surgery such as bone density and other health issues. It is worth asking other doctors if this is the case and if anything can improve your chances. Sometimes surgery isn't the best answer, and perhaps physical therapy can help ease symptoms a bit.
After 2 opinions with both being from same major medical school/provider, I will be seeking a 3rd opinion from a totally new doctor in a different organization. So far, no one evens considers PT an option. I'm at age 83, and previous to this debacle, have been very active in volunteering at 2 different places on a weekly basis. Currently all I see and hear is "your age".
@retiredx3 I think an opinion at a facility completely separate from where your other doctors are is a good idea.
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1 ReactionJust have to figure out which specialist, and find transportation to the other state. So tired of being told I'm toooooo old. Some people do keep active after 80.
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