7 months post-op ACDF c6,7. Results, bone growth, ongoing issues.

[@kirbycat]

Thanks for sharing this video. Had 3 level ACDF fusion about 3 weeks ago. After reading comments below I am feeling more grateful about my outcome. Much improved with numbness in my arms. I am a hairdresser with 40 years experience. Left hand is still not ready for my work. My gait is much improved. Still careful on stairs. Not where I totally want to be, but grateful I have more improvement. Some new pain in upperback but not terrible. Swallowing is aggravating. Hope that continues to improve. My thoughts and prayers go out to everyone here suffering with failures and more pain.🙏

[@Adriennewithane]

Thanks for your comment. We all need that encouragement sometimes.

[@marky77777]

The swallowing part is maddening.

[@kirbycat]

@@marky77777 Amen brother.

[@Tac8192]

@@Adriennewithane can you runing and cycling?

[@Lord_Don]

It’s been a long while now Are you finally getting good relief

[@MargaretNeedham-wo5hf]

Thks for sharing. I had ACDF it went well but now I have trapezium muscular pain after 6 mths after surgery and seeing a physio which is helping!! It's annoying, but it's worth it

[@rosacastillo5784]

Thank you. I just got my anterior discectomy and fusion of 5 and 6. I was wondering I neck pain goes away with time but you mentioned that after 7 months you still feel some pain. I heard a spine specialist said that the way you feel a year after your surgery is the way you are going to feel all your life. I hope the pain goes away for all of us

[@Adriennewithane]

Yes, I e heard that it is around 18 months for nerves to fully heal. I do feel better, but always have a little stiffness and am more prone to soreness. Best of luck!

[@joannemarguerite2715]

Thank you for sharing your experience. Going in for ACDF coming up. I've been very nervous and appreciate your realistic information. I have cervical spinal stenosis, DDD, spondylosis, and some quite nasty bone spurs. They said surgery wouldn't make anything better but will keep me from becoming paralyzed. I have to admit I'm terrified but I wanted to thank you. Seeing that coming out on the other side and being okay really helps. P.s. I never comment on anything

[@simonemaxwell813]

Thank you for posting this video. I'm having ACDF surgery coming soon, and I've been researching every aspect of it. I appreciate your thoroughness and easy explanations. This really helped me understand what to expect in the first 6 mpnths.

[@datsuntoyy]

How did your surgery and recovery go?

[@kimbrisbois2882]

I've been told I have congenital spinal stenosis. No specific injury here either. First surgery 4 years ago. Now scheduled for acdf c6/7 in Dec. Thank you so much for sharing! Hearing about how you're doing 7 months out is so appreciated!

[@clevelandgirl3226]

Thank you for this video. My C6C7 fusion surgery is coming up next month in May 2022. I am quite nervous but I feel very good about my surgeon. I am heading across the country to Florida for my procedure. Stressed out about not being able to drive because my husband cannot drive due to his health issues. This is going to be a challenging time.

[@Screwsandrods]

Hi, I've watched all of your recovery videos and appreciate you taking the time to talk about your experience. On October 1st, I'm having a 360 ACDF with 4 level fusion, I'm in awful pain and I'm scared yet at the same time relieved I have an amazing neurosurgeon. I'm anxious and yet researching has given me more confidence knowing what I can than not knowing. ☮️😷

[@Adriennewithane]

Best of luck! Hope you find relief soon.

[@marky77777]

How are you doing now?

[@moondogmotion6128]

Thank you for your experience.

[@TheJackpotQueen]

OMG I’m 60 was.hit in the rear and 3 disc came out I had to have this surgery tried everything because I didn’t want it but because I was feeling pain from nerves being caught I’m 10 days out so far so good

[@Adriennewithane]

I’m glad it went well. Don’t push yourself. Let yourself heal and ask for help. I think that really helps you heal well and keep the pain down.

[@sharibond9930]

I just got out of the hospital with ACDF with fusion surgery. I have been having lots of anxiety issues. Thanks for this video. Does help to have a real person to hear the experience to compare to. Maybe i'll make my own video in several months.

[@lawrencelehabe6809]

Fused 3 levels in 2009 due to disc degeneration. Had severe pains 3 months post op, didn’t go back to neurologist, asked to be prayed instead. All good since, this year 2021, have had pain on my right shoulder and arm, seeing physio hoping for the best and praying that nothing serious me won’t go surgeon. Indeed it’s a blessing to live without pain.

[@celestesage8360]

I had a 5, 6 & 7 fusion in Feb from a herniated disc and a ruptured disc. I did therapy and just finished with that. I still have numbness in my arm and achy pain but compared to the pain I was in I’m wasay better. We didn’t know the cause either. Thanks for the video. It feels good to know I’m not alone.

[@Olivia-hu8eg]

Hello.. I just wanted to ask you when did the numbness start to go away? I am currently 3 weeks post-op but the numbness in my legs hasn't gotten better AT ALL! Im feeling kind of hopeless... so can you please tell me about your experience with the numbness?

[@Corto237]

@@Olivia-hu8eg how are your legs now? It's June 2022

[@Olivia-hu8eg]

@@Corto237 better thank god🙏🏼

[@KimWright]

your videos are much more put together than mine ! lol thank you for sharing your journey! hope my videos help too! interesting you mention your dr says to not do certain things-- mine says go ahead- shooting range, skydiving, horsebackriding, etc-- and im like- no way -- and hearing you say your side-- im leaning towards NOT doing them but idk... also- i had c4-c7 done -- now at almost 8 months post acdf - and now having leg/feet numbness now. also disc c8-t1 blew out at month 4 :( wishing you well!

[@Adriennewithane]

Thanks, i'm no professional youtuber by any means, but I like sharing and getting feedback. It's such an interesting community. I think everyone heals differently and has different levels of comfort after going through something like this. I hope we all can get back to what we love!

[@pamelacooley6457]

Hamm you for your posts. Surgery 2levels on April 22,2024 it’s a scary surgery. But love your honesty ❤ appreciate you so much

[@jeanniegray8639]

I’m going through the nerve pain and sleepless nights. It’s been 10 months now and I spend a lot of time in bed. So sick of taking pain meds. Surgery is in 3 months. Mine is C6-C7 and it’s pressing on my spinal cord. I have a very straight neck also. I want my quality of life back. Thank you for making this video.

[@Adriennewithane]

I think you will feel very different after surgery. It can be very depressing living with all the pain and anxiety. Feel Better!!

[@eddiemiranda469]

Hope you feel better I had mine 10 weeks ago but the pain on my back neck goes and comes

[@تركيبنحوبان]

Thx alot for good information....

[@vernonjones3613]

Hi addriene i followed your recovery from your first operation to the most recent and im pleased that your operation has been successfully you look remarkably well after having major surgery I’m awaiting a2 level ACDF operation soon watching your uploads has given me some confidence which I thank you for I hope you continue to recover and you wount require anymore treatment ❤️🇬🇧 look after yourself x

[@leslieescobedo2325]

Thank you for sharing this, I have the same problem with the neck. I don’t have the curve 😢 we have similar problems going on with the spine no curves on neck or lower back. It’s so scary 😨 thanks for sharing and letting us know that everything will be okay ❤❤

[@gumaniure6129]

Good luck sister got haldi and Was

[@jimbetche7864]

I'm getting ready to have my c-6 and c-5 disks replaced with fusion in 3 day's very nervous about it but I hear good reports most of the time of other people's experiences. It's April 25 2022 today. Wish me luck...

[@Adriennewithane]

Good Luck!! Normal to be nervous. If you can get through the first 3-5 days. You'll feel so much better. and even those days aren't usualy that bad.

[@CoffeeTeaWithSusan]

I’m so glad that you are feeling better. So I had ACDF 3 years ago on 5-6-7. I recently started to have pain again… like flare ups. The last flare up was a nerve pain and put me in bed. Just had CT and MRI ….. and it showed nothing impinging the spinal cord. I’m gonna try PT’s and maybe acupuncture… I do yoga daily. Gonna see if this will help. This was a new surgeon I saw cuz I moved to TX. So it it doesn’t get better, I’ll get another opinion. Yes like you I am very careful now! Lifting plays a role! Jarring plays a role? Posture plays a role! All these will stir things up. I’m so glad your better..your young, so take care of yourself. ❤

[@Adriennewithane]

Yes, all of this is good advice. Unfortunately, I'm not the best example of how to perfectly take care of myself. Especially with 2 small kids. I know I should be doing better, but alas, I don't always find the time. I do have some things that I do for flare ups, self traction, some postural correction, stretching etc. Hopefully your surgery stays stable.

[@sanjeevk3450]

Thanks Adrienne for sharing your experience. I had a consultation and advice from the doctor regarding the surgery on C6 and C7 sort of degeneration and some other issues. Which hospital you been and how much it's cost to do it in US? Actually I am worried due to the neck and read that, this will have some vocal cord problem, infection and chances of paralyzed also if something goes wrong. So checking the hospital and the doctor, who has done the surgery for you. Thank you and wish you to be healthy.

[@madrussianbodybuilder5076]

Thank you lady you did great video and say real stuff my wife just had that sergery trying to Lear everything to help her thank you

[@mapatriciaongsuco1822]

Thank you for sharing! I’m going in for my 2nd cervical disc replacement in a week, c6-7 this time. My first one was 8 yrs ago. Knowing and hearing from your experience reassured me indeed that everything is going to be alright. Hope all is well with you ❤

[@joebrouillard565]

I get 2-disc replacement and a single level fusion in a couple days too, thanks this is very helpful and gives hope.

[@darlenea9050]

I had mine a month ago yesterday on c3-c6 levels. I'm 60 and so far going as planned.

[@bokudou]

Thank you for sharing!

[@sherrylantrip9328]

Hi I just went through surgery on the 12th of November, 2020. The only reason why I agreed to and went through this surgery of the c6 c7 region was the dr said he was going to put in an artificial disc. Other than the issues I was experiencing that is. Under no circumstances was I ever gonna have a fusion. I don’t want limitations as I fix things myself when they breakdown, even my vehicle. I can’t afford to be limited. I’m only two weeks post-op and though the tingling, numbness, carpal tunnel syndrome, cubital tunnel are near nonexistent. My nerve was completely flattened from what dr said! Anyway I’ve now got pain in my right front chest muscles and oh the pain in both my shoulder blades are atrocious. Im having to take muscle relaxers daily. Was on steroids for 5 days. Taking prescription pain meds when I just can’t bare it, Advil rest of times. And now I have to take a Zanax to help me sleep cause there just ain’t no good laying position. The nurse said disc is ceramic, yet bone will grow fusing my vertebrae’s plus a fusion plate was also placed. This is my body dr knew I didn’t want fusion yet it was done. My range of motion is limited cause of the pain I’m in. I don’t like taking drugs but I’ve been given not much of a choice. Either suffer or don’t! My question is and correct me if I’m wrong you said c6 n c7 was fused on you (last surgery). What range of motion do you have now that you are further out post-op than when you posted this video?

[@CoffeeTeaWithSusan]

I had spaces placed between 5,6,7…. Very successful 3 years out. Now I’m in big pain again… feels like c7 and below. Just moved to TX and I need to find someone asap.

[@natashamalone3321]

I have been keeping up with your video and I had the surgery two time . My first one was 5-6 6-7 and the next was level 4 and now I can't sleep so I just look at video all day.

[@Adriennewithane]

Best of luck. I hope you heal well!

[@syntholshoulders1842]

your so beutiful to have neck problems :) my voice has been a mess since my 1s t surgery 2 level acdf almost 6 weeks

[@emeryperez1699]

Egh Im in pain off and on 3 months and Im not as fast healing as some but then again Im doing better than most

[@TarianneTerrazas]

Thank you for sharing your experience with us - wishing for your continued good health and solid recovery.

[@Adriennewithane]

Thank you! Same to you.

[@KimWright]

thank you so much!

[@peterhinner5062]

Absolutely great video. Everything you've said mirrors my own experience, especially the little aches, sleep positions, needing to avoid jarring activities, not being able to rotate your head easily when changing lanes when driving. I had a C6-7 fusion with degeneration of disc above and below it to look forward to. You basically have to make little adjustments to life but atleast the excrutiating pain has gone.

[@Adriennewithane]

yes, I'll always know something is different, but little by little, you get used to it, and you continue to heal and can actually get back to activities you love. I hope you are doing well!

[@kennethellison2857]

So I guess I can’t do a video to really show my results but again I’m only four weeks out so maybe in six months like this lady is talking and plus she had two surgeries so well I commend her for that

[@gargamel.308]

Great video👍. Going in for my 2nd fusion after just 10mths, the pain and numbness all bk again

[@ericat8030]

Hello, I am feeling the same after 10 months post op cervical fusion, can you please tell me why you need a second surgery so soon? I’ll be seeing my neurosurgeon soon. Ty

[@gargamel.308]

@@ericat8030 hi, i had C5/C6 done and after 5mths or so i knew something wasnt right as i had pain in my neck and arm and numbness in fingers, but in my right arm this time, as before my 1st op it was my left. So it turns out i have to have a fusion in C4/C5 now, Best of luck Eirca.

[@TheMcs33]

I have determined in this and I go to the doctor soon and I'm scared as hell

[@tamalike2073]

Oh my God ? Second surgery ? I hv run 7weeks time still off on my duty but still recovering with physical therapy ?? Lifting is still my problem ?? And reflux ?? Tiresome during the day , it’s another experience guys ,, thax for sharing with us ?? 🙏✌️😀

[@bilaliqbalhusain]

Thanks for sharing your experience. I got ACDF on C6 & C7 one year ago and have pretty much same symptoms and challenges as yours. Would like to have more information if possible.

[@Adriennewithane]

What information are you looking for? I have a large playlist on my channel labeled "ACDF and Cervical Disc replacement Surgery" I have a lot of information about my experience there. Best of luck!

[@adiraz3071]

I can't thank you enough for sharing your experience and journey with the ACDF. This is so helpful in making the right decision, individually of course. I hope you continue to recover and feel better! Thank you so much again !👍🏻🙏🏻🧡

[@KimWright]

you are very welcome! thank you for supporting me :)

[@ashleywaltz3821]

Iam very terrified 😰, i have ddd,spinal stenosis, c-6/c-7, has pushed inward on ,my spine i have no other options, i have to get ACDF,😢 iam a heavy tobacco user,iam at 41,i have done so much research and still no answers i have watched videos of others and no answers ther.,i have alot of pain daily. My health history is different from others i carry a xxx,chromosome. Iam afraid that i will have the same results even with surgery. Thats the hard part iam trying to find out 😢.

[@Adriennewithane]

@@ashleywaltz3821 that is tough. I was very terrified too. More than you can tell from these videos. I’m sure you know that the best thing you can do is try to reduce the tobacco use. I know that’s no easy feat. However it can interfere with circulation and bone healing. I wish you the best of luck. Sometimes when we have tough stuff we have to just get it over with and walk through it rather than standing on the side with fear. I felt so proud of myself and almost invincible after I got through my first surgery. It is possible.

[@Lord_Don]

I’m with you. I’m in the same seat. Just had 3 level ACDF surgery It’s only been 2 weeks post op. It’s a tough choice but we have to get through it. If you need surgery, don’t put it off. I’ll be here for ya - a lot of us are terrified as you are. I too am a heavy tobacco user and I’ve stopped in fear of messing up the fusion. You’re not alone my friend

[@BackontheBayou]

Thank you so very much. Going to be having this in a few weeks, mainly due to 7 years of pain which became debilitating and your video has really helped reassure me. So grateful.How debilitating as your pain? I am now have severe mobility issues due to scapula and neck pain so hoping this will bring relief. Same place as yours is where my fusion will be - the vertebrae shifted over the years, no idea why. Thanks so much again, really grateful for this.

[@vernonjones3613]

Thanks for all the uploads that you provide they are very useful glad you are doing good you look well I hope you continue to improve keep well and safe have a happy Christmas toy you and your family 🇬🇧❤️

[@bennywilks9367]

Thanks for the video. You are succinct and you don't ramble on like 98% of all video posters. Can you please tell me why they opted to fuse 6-7 instead of just doing another disc replacement?

[@Adriennewithane]

Thanks, I feel like I do ramble a lot, glad it isn’t annoying. I think I touched on this in another video somewhere. I opted for the fusion because in the US, 3 level disc replacement isn’t a thing, or wasn’t at the time. Not fda approved. Might have worked since it wasn’t all one surgery. But my neck anatomy is also borderline for a disc replacement anyway because I don’t have a nice lordosis/ curvature. So in order to avoid any more trouble in the future and because I had a history of herniated discs I wanted something a little more tried and true. I also don’t have to worry about adjacent disc degeneration at least from above, because of my disc replacement surgery at 5-6. I didn’t push for it.

[@AhmedAdel.a]

Hello and thank you for explaining your experience. I pray to God to heal you and heal every patient. My question is, is it possible for conservative treatment to work before reaching surgery? I mean, you tried treatment and prevention.

[@Adriennewithane]

Hi, thanks for the question. Yes, conservative treatment is often a great option, therapy, injections, traction etc. I was advised by several doctors that that wouldn’t work well in my situation. My herniations were too severe and on my spinal cord which made surgery a more immediate need. But yes, many people do conservative treatment first.

[@jessecano2392]

I had 4 discs replace with cadaver ones my neck was fused at c3,c4,c5c6c7 I had 2 surgeries in the front and 1 in the back , 3 1/2 years ago my back was fused also from t9- l2 but both fusions failed I’m worse now than before I had the surgeries I was diagnosed with failed back syndrome I’m in a lot of pain every day I’m on heavy opioids that are working less after taking them for so long your body gets amune to them. To make things worse I’m fighting with insurance they are denying everything I’m still here by the grace of god

[@Adriennewithane]

Man, that sucks. I'm sorry you are going through all of that. I hope you find relief somehow. It is always a risk that this could cascade into something worse, since I hopefully have a whole lot of years left to live with this. Best Wishes!!!

[@madrussianbodybuilder5076]

Great videos lady my wife just had surgery

[@MSPRIIKA]

I just had this done a week ago 2 level c5-c7 . I’m fine but the shoulder blade will win is soooo annoying I hope it goes away

[@eudiachow732]

I know that because i had a kneecap remplacement But now i had to do a stenose operation Thanks for sharing 👍

[@philgoogle1535]

Thank you Adrienne for your videos. I have a herniated C6/7 disc and whilst I have radiculopathy, there is no myelopathy. Through physical therapy, I was able to alleviate most of my symptoms but I do admit that I will have either an ACDF or Artificial Disc Replacement in the near future. Did you do any physical therapy before and after your procedures? I'm 59 and have resolved to keep doing my stretches and exercises for life as my cervical joints above C7 are also degenerated.

[@emilyselfe2158]

Hi Adrienne, I’m looking at having disc replacement c6/c7 but I’m really nervous of both short term and long term pain after surgery. Was replacement surgery less painful than fusion? I’m a dental hygienist and bend my neck all day in my day job - do you think this will be a problem after 6-12 weeks of surgery? I’m aware I might not be able to work full time again but so long as I don’t lose my career completely. I’m so nervous! Thank you for your video and sharing your experience.

[@cartofgiant]

Thank you for the info...

[@Adriennewithane]

Any time!

[@randyprice132]

I had my c-5 & c-6 done in dec 2011 no problems first maybe 2 years then it started with pain so after a few MRI"s the shift was unreal so much my neck begain to grow backwards so now im having to have it removed and a fusion done in its place , never again will i have disk replacement you were so right about living every day being more than careful if you have this done and yes it can come out as happened to my work mate on his lower back he lost all feeling below ...

[@Adriennewithane]

Wow! Did the disc come out/ migrate? Or did your neck just change alignment over time?

[@randyprice132]

@@Adriennewithane it was over time i still have it in and just been told it has to be removed because its making the bones in my neck grow in the opposite direction , it will be a task to remove because its been in for almost 10 years so grown to my vertebrates now after removed they will try a fusion ...

[@Adriennewithane]

That sucks. I guess that is always a risk... was your neck alignment normal before surgery?

[@randyprice132]

@@Adriennewithane yes it was and for a short time after also but now i have a huge opening in the back of the mobi-c replacement so much so its almost standing upright to push my neck forward above c-5

[@Adriennewithane]

I bet that’s a crazy looking X-ray! Best of luck on the corrective surgery!

[@dallasharris891]

Hey there ☺️ I had ACDF @4/5 10 days ago .

[@Adriennewithane]

Hope you are doing well.

[@maxmedlin4875]

Uggh Im scheduled for single c5-c6 surgery in three weeks, Im scared beyond belief. No idea what to expect but the pinched nerve is very bad. Orthopedic surgeon?

[@KimWright]

i used an ortho yes! please keep me posted on how you make out.! if theres anything i can support you with LMK

[@Pawnlust]

6:00 Was your stenosis and myelopathy in the neck giving you leg symptoms?

[@Adriennewithane]

Yes

[@momojo5867]

Why is it no one says where and who did their surgeries. I am looking at overseas surgeons, but I would love to know if there are any other surgeons doing ACDR and where?

[@autumn3035]

Did if ever make your chest fell heavy and hard time breathing and everythike I get up I fell like ima pass out I’m so dizzy I can’t even walk threw the house without felling like ima faint

[@bchance2589]

I had 3 level ACDF surgery C4-C7 on Jan 6th. I started PT on the 18th of Jan. Before the surgery, i was experiencing weakness in my left arm. I was able to lift my arm, but it was very weak. After the surgery, the weakness is still present. However, i can't lift my left arm. I'm doing PT 3 days a week. I'm seeing some improvement. Has anyone else had a similar experience?

[@Lord_Don]

Your situation is very similar to my own! Please give an update!!! I too just had 3 level ACDF My left arm has lost some size and some strength soon after. Before the surgery it seems as tho my strength wants to return but still weaker than me right How are you feeling after a year out? Did you get you strength back? Please let me know something when you get a chance😞

[@waliedcraayenstein7394]

I’m about to go though this operation due to a accident I’m scared as I haven’t been to hospital for anything major

[@Adriennewithane]

That’s how I was before mine too. Good luck!

[@raymonddonahue1942]

If I may ask you a question? At the base next level down after the the fixation plate, how is it felling?? I’ve had two different surgeries, the same as you.

[@Melita1969]

Exactly 9 weeks out and 3 months before the surgery I did my last marathon. I am in a lot of pain. Less than surgery pain but the same as before surgery. Numbness is gone. But the shoulder pain radiating between the shoulder blades and causing sleepless nights. I am starting my running team with my students tomorrow but I dont think a brisk walk is more than I can handle. But if I can endure marathon pain I guess this will go away??????? Marathon pain goes away this is 24/7 and 365.

[@Melita1969]

C5C6C7 Fusion

[@Melita1969]

I worry because my husband did c4c5c6 at 39 and that was 10 years ago and the pain never went away. I am 51, I afraid of the pain never going away. I did have the knot in the throat but it went away by 6-7 weeks.

[@Adriennewithane]

I’m sorry you’re still having pain. If it’s not improving, I might ask for a follow up mri or ct... you might have another level, or some arthritic changes. I have had that scapular pain and know it... mine went *almost* completely away after my second surgery to repair another level... having 2 levels done at once is a lot of trauma and you may need more time to heal, or it may have caused some new issue... hard to say, but always best to be honest with your surgeon/ neurologist. If they’re not giving you clear answers a second opinion is always an option too. Best of luck!

[@Melita1969]

@@Adriennewithane THANK YOU!He said I should have had less pain a while ago and took the the pain killers away Im not allergic to, so I have to learn to deal with out them now. Its been 9 weeks.

[@Adriennewithane]

Mrs Briseno I’d say ice may be your best bet, until you get it figured out. Hopefully you get better soon. Listen to your body once you start running.

[@Mpsalaxar67]

Hello! I am so glad you did this video I am going into surgery next week to have a Mobi-c for C4-c6 with fusion in C7. I would like to know how you are doing if you can feel the metal plate on your C7 prayers for you much appreciate it any information you can give me is awesome thank you

[@Adriennewithane]

Hi Best of luck with your surgery. Sounds a lot like mine, only done all at once. I do not feel the plate. At first there is swelling and a little lump or tightness in your neck - but don't freak out. It is in the front of your neck, and not your throat. I was so worried about feeling like I was choking, but it's not like that. I feel pretty good most days. just follow your doctors instructions and don't over do it... allow people to help you.

[@Mpsalaxar67]

@@Adriennewithane Thank you so much I really appreciate you providing me more information and the video!! Wishing you continued blessings

[@toniwertman4818]

Why did you have to do it again

[@Tumble96]

Thank you because I’m having a hard time and making a decision in getting my five, six, and seven fusion done. I’m a golfer and I like all outdoors activities like fishing, hiking and motorcycle riding etc… will I be able to be as active as I am now?

[@JP-ui5hu]

16:41 16:41

[@robanderson9756]

Thanks for posting this very helpful video. Did you do any physical therapy? If so what did that consist of. I had a 2 level ACDF 7 weeks ago.

[@peteben9635]

My muscles in the neck get achy, muscles always tight and headaches and exhausted, I think it is from my herniated disc and stenosis. I wonder if surgery will help

[@RR-hc6nv]

Congrats. Who was your doctor?

[@MsCancun1234]

I have OPLL, c2 toc7, dr wants do surgery on me on February this year, I have been putting out..im scared, thank you very much make this video. What state are you? Im in Florida

[@Adriennewithane]

I don’t have much experience with opll. I’m sure your surgeon does though. I am in Indiana. Best of luck!

[@jem5108]

How are you doing now? I'm also, supposed to get 3 level fusion I'm getting a second opinion. See if I can have minimum evasive surgery or have artificial disk. A hybrid like yours. Thanks. Hope your doing good.

[@rhouser1280]

Thank you for sharing, I’m in the same boat, no real reason except possibly genetics but I have 2 herniated discs at 40 yrs old. Scared out of my mind that I’m going to choose the wrong procedure, either Prestige lp, mobi c, or fusion.

[@natalia6381]

how are you? have you made your decision?

[@rhouser1280]

@@natalia6381 went with Mobi-c. I’m not doing real good, there was an issue with a 3rd disc that they didn’t operate on. It was bulging. So when they inserted the fake discs, it really pushed against the 3rd one & I have been in constant pain for the past 2 months. It has tapered off quite a bit but still nowhere near normal. I was hoping to be pain free when they were done & be one of these happy people on KZbin saying they wish they would’ve done it sooner. Maybe if this other one dies down or I have it fixed I’ll make a video

[@natalia6381]

I didn’t know they can deteriorate other discs with the surgery. So sorry. I am your age and suffering with the same thing. And I am also worried the surgery can make it worse for me.

[@sebastienmeiries2446]

Hi Adrienne. I watched some of your videos from France as I have cervical problems. Right now I am thinking about getting the surgery at C6-C7 and later at other upper levels. My question is : how did you choose between disc replacement and fusion ? Maybe you have a video talking about this topic already ? Thanks so much for sharing your experience. Take care.

[@Adriennewithane]

Hi there. I do have a few videos talking about my decision to get a disc replacement (kzbin.info/www/bejne/fJLLq6Chir2grpY) followed by my fusion(kzbin.info/www/bejne/bp-tf3Sjls53i6s). A lot goes into the decision primarily surgeon skill and recommendation, insurance rules, severity of your issues. In general a disc replacement is usually OK on an otherwise healthy spine. In my experience fusions and necessary in more unstable and uncertain situations. Always get multiple opinions from several doctors and even therapists or seek advice here online before making your own informed decision. Best of luck.

[@sebastienmeiries2446]

@@Adriennewithane Thank you so much for your quick and detailed reply. I will give many thumbs up to your videos. All the very best to you !

[@sergiom.1237]

Hello. Where you able to go back to lift like before the surgery?

[@sharonneff1269]

Thanks for sharing. I am due to have a 4 level ACDF soon. I have been a dental hygienist for 31 years and it has wrecked my neck. I had L4-5 fusion this past December. I cannot wait to get back to real life. It’s exhausting having so much pain. I don’t know how well I’ll be able to work after this surgery. I just don’t want to have permanent pain or paralysis. So, I’m ready to get it done!! Was it real painful?

[@Adriennewithane]

If you have a skilled surgeon your pain should be minimal. But 4 levels is a lot and I was in a good deal of pain and stiffness with just 2 levels. I'd be prepared to be uncomfortable for a week or so and it will gradually get better. Just DON'T DO ANYTHING! Not even sort of, follow your post op directions and baby yourself. Don't be afraid to ask for help and use it.

[@aliciaanderson3039]

Thank u so much I’m so nervous to have my surgery c 4&5 did the same dr do both ur surgeries .? And do I have a choice of disk replacement or fusion ? I want disk replacement to preserve movement . I’m like u I want to know everything . Thank u ur. Very imformative .

[@Adriennewithane]

I hope you're doing well. Not sure if you've had your surgery yet or not. I would say that you always have the ability to ask questions and advocate for yourself. See what the doctors recommendations are, and just because they're not familiar with a certain procedure, doesn't mean you're not a candidate. But you do want someone with experience. I searched and searched for someone who told me a fusion wasn't the only option.

[@mustafak.ismael542]

Hi , do you have pain in your thighs in front? till your knees ?

[@yudisusaka3246]

After 3 months of ACDF surgery, my neck still hurts..is it normal?

[@RobtheKO8Efan24]

I had the same surgery, Do you have tightness on a daily basis? It's been a yrs since my surgery and I deal with more tightness and some pain. Almost everyday. Thank you for you video

[@michaeltrica1797]

@Adrienne I wanted to ask you if the tingling/numbness in your legs has been resolved following your C6/C7 ACDF? I have tingling in both legs and my surgeon doesn't think it has anything to do with my cervical herniation. Thank you so much for the insight regarding your recovery. Extremely helpful. I'm having C6/C7 ACDF in a few weeks.

[@Adriennewithane]

Yes, I haven’t noticed much tingling lately. I will say my arms / legs “fall asleep” a lot faster when I sleep in a bad position, but that could also be my age. They always come back to normal once I wake up and give them a few minutes.

[@patriciasutherland8025]

Great Video. I will be doing ACDF in a month, I am 72. Spinal stenosis, Congenital narrowing/Cevical Myelopathy (spinal cord compressed). C-7. Did you have to wear a collar?

[@Adriennewithane]

I had a soft collar for comfort to protect from jarring motions like in the car (as passenger, not driver). But i wasn't required to wear a collar. Good luck to you.

[@alessandranascimento3149]

Você tinha retificação na cervical?

[@MrKennyfook1]

Did u had upper back and shoulder pain pre op?. I have reverse lordosis too and have one herniated and some layer nearly. How did u decide to go on surgery? what it already pressing on spinal cored or nearly?

[@dr.pranjaltamuli1737]

I have gone through Acdf at C5-C6 level on 22 nd June 2021. I am still having occasional numbness of left hand and mild shoulder pain. I don't know when shall I get relief.

[@Adriennewithane]

You are still early in your recovery. Hopefully you will continue to improve. All the Best!

[@dr.pranjaltamuli1737]

@@Adriennewithane Thanks for your reply 😊.

[@tylerbrooks3998]

Hi Dr. Tamuli. Hope your progress is going well. Did you have chronic headaches as part of your symptoms? If so, have they resolved? Just had ACDF at C5-C6 on September 30th. The arm pain and balance issues have almost completely resolved, but I'm still getting daily headaches. Interested to hear if you experienced anything similar. Hope you are having a great weekend!

[@rukeshrt4636]

Cost of the surgery pls?

[@757macattack]

Thanks for sharing. I just had 3 level ACDF this week due to herniations. At what point of post surgery did you start implementing PT?

[@Adriennewithane]

I would wait until you are released by your surgeon. After that, you need to have your lifting restrictions released. My doctor allowed gentle stretches after my disc replacement, but more immobilization after ACDF. Listen to your body and you can always keep your cardio up by walking and staying generally active especially lower body.

[@bchance2589]

I had 3 level ACDF surgery C4-C7 on Jan 6th. I started PT on the 18th of Jan. Before the surgery i was experiencing weakness in my left arm. I was able to lift my arm, but it was very weak. After the surgery the weakness is still present, however i can't lift my left arm. I'm doing PT 3 days a week. I'm seeing some improvement. Has anyone else had similar experience?

[@757macattack]

@@bchance2589 I have a similar situation. I had zero deltoid function after an auto accident from last February. My first surgery was a nerve transfer from my triceps muscle to my deltoid. My disk herniations and impingement were missed initially and I just had those taken care of in December. I’ve had a lot of weakness to my shoulder pre and post surgery. I’m hoping I’m on the upswing now.

[@amandawalsh8019]

Hi! I just had C5C6 fusion yesterday. Any help with how I should wash my hair?!?

[@Adriennewithane]

Well, use your doctors directions for showering after surgery. They usually say don’t get your incision wet for a few days… I have a video in my surgery playlist where I go over a few things I used post op. One is a plastic adhesive sheet to cover my bandage in the shower. Other than that, go slowly and wait a few days… I was most sore on days 2 and 3. Ask someone to do it for you if you can in a bathtub. I did all my own hair washing in the shower.

[@amandawalsh8019]

@@Adriennewithane that’s the problem. They said wait 48 hrs to bathe, but never gave instructions on HOW to shampoo my hair. It’s long and curly. I normally tilt backwards in the shower to wash and rinse. I am wearing a Miami J collar for 2 weeks. Thank you for responding.

[@Adriennewithane]

@@amandawalsh8019 I never had any sort of fixed collar so I didn’t have to worry about that.

[@jingwooncheong1703]

Hi I had my acdf 3 months ago but I felt imbalance and reduce range of motion in neck....do u have this issue after he operation??any way to contact u to share more to me??

[@Adriennewithane]

yes, I had some of that at first, I still have limited rage of motion especially side to side bending, and I felt like a bit of a bobble head for a while, but it all improved.

[@jingwooncheong1703]

@@Adriennewithane appreciate it very much thanks 😊 any way to contact u???would like to know more about after opt

[@Lord_Don]

How are you feeling now You’re 2 years in & I’m only 2 weeks I’m still mentally out of it having to wear a collar for another 5 to 6 weeks😢

[@charlesboyer8811]

Just curious if someone can share their personal experience on their ACDF recovery with their filler coming from their hip and not a donor. Was your hip in a lot of pain and for how long

[@Adriennewithane]

I can’t speak to autologous bone graft. My spacer and cage is PEEK and artificial. I had asked for a cadaver bone spacer but my surgeon said they couldn’t find one the right size. I think he just preferred the PEEK. But I did not have a graft from my hip.

[@irfankhokhar167]

Dr told me I need surgery which will be in couple of days. For C6-C7 disk bulge. Very informative video for me. Want to ask its 8 months now never had numbness, tickling and grip loose, do you think still surgery is final solution ? Thanks,

[@Adriennewithane]

I think if you are unsure you can definitely take the time to get a second opinion. I can’t say, follow your gut and try to trust professionals.

[@kennethellison2857]

I never had none of the issues that some of your people that had a surgery I think mine was pretty much straight forward I didn’t have too much back problems some of the I guess problems I have are both sharp pains to the right and the left arms other than that numbness in my left fingers and palm other than that I was pretty good after the surgery throat still a little funny scratchy never have problems sleeping I’m pretty much can dance and other that stuff like that

[@cartofgiant]

Did you go for the mobi c or m6 disc? And if so why.. I had a fusion and the disc above is damaged. I’m in a lot of pain that runs on to my trap

[@Adriennewithane]

Best of luck, I have 2 prestige LPs

[@VEE-rd7cu]

Thanks for update. How did you decide on your surgeon? Did you have problems with your eyesight?

[@Adriennewithane]

I did not have problems with my eyesight that I could ever tell. I interviewed/ visited with 4 surgeons total ortho and neuro and I settled on the only one who would try the 2 level disc replacement. Everyone else said no way, only fusion. So I thought at least he was willing to give it a try, willing to bend the “rules” and base his decision on the patient not just protocol. I was borderline so I understood the risks. He wasn’t the most highly acclaimed surgeon in my area, but I felt good in his hands. In fact the “rock start” surgeon in my area seemed more interested in signing me up for a clinical trial - which I wasn’t a match for- than on fixing me... I think the background of all of this is in my first video on this channel. Hope you’re doing well!

[@CoffeeTeaWithSusan]

Anyone with spine issues and surgery.. MUST do yoga practice daily. Prevents future issues. My shoulders rolled forward and I notice your do to… try yoga cuz there is still strain on your neck.

[@pacemart60]

You had done public or private ? Big bone film for a women How much cost you this surgery ? I got some problems but surgeon don’t operate public unless severe effect arms weakness Can you bend look right left bend the neck backwards ok

[@Adriennewithane]

I live in the US so we only really have one system. It was private I guess, paid through my insurance. Not sure what you mean by big bone film... I do have pretty normal range of motion for the most part. I had hand numbness, and initially leg and hand weakness too. I hope you are well.

[@pacemart60]

@@Adriennewithane thank same you also those surgery only get done with insurance But on govt hospital not way they doing same in my country australia only if have insurance but not in public hospital unless is very very severe

[@pacemart60]

@@Adriennewithane hi when you said you only have one system but if someone broke a leg or have stroke or pneumonia’s Where people get treated with insurance ?

[@qili1377]

Hi Adrienne, do you experience any issues from your disc replacement surgeries which caused you to get the fusion because I may get a disc replacement but I am nervous of how successful it will go. Were there any side effects from the disc replacements you experienced after?

[@Adriennewithane]

I don’t believe my disc replacement caused me to get a fusion. My c6,7 was already bulging when I had my replacement surgery. If anything maybe the trauma from the actual surgery (the banging, drilling etc) may have made it worse, but not the actual replacement discs. Mine just got worse over time. The only “side effects” I feel now are occasional stiffness, still intermittent lump sensation in my throat- not bad, and I *think* I can hear/ feel the discs moving sometimes, I will get a popping or grinding sensation/ sound. It’s not painful, just something I notice.

[@senturajak6373]

Can you run and riding bike..

[@gumaniure6129]

मेरो पनि 3मैना भयो सरजलि गरेका तर हिडडुल गर्न सक्दिन टाउको दुखन कम भयको छ सि5रसि6को सारै गारो हुदो रैछ नसा चापीयको थियन अलिकति हडिसरेको थियो डाक्टर रामकिसुन बराकोटि ले गर्नु भयको हो अप्रेसन गनुपर्छ भनुभयो गल्ति गरेको महसुस् भयको छ नेपालको रामकिसन बराकोटी डक्टर ले यकसिडेन परेको थय

[@ozzyhassan949]

Sister you must practice gentle yoga and posture correction as best you can. Blessings to you.

[@jamespreston6079]

I think now I won’t be getting this surgery

[@Adriennewithane]

I would have liked to avoid it too, but that wasn't really possible.

[@lorihite3521]

I would like to know how all these people get pain pills. All I'm ever told is take tylenol

[@Adriennewithane]

I had pain management immediately post op, but didn’t need much more than Tylenol or ibuprofen after 2-3 days.

[@lorihite3521]

Pain management told me to take tylenol . I have a slipped disk need fusion in lower back and my neck needs it