Why You May Have Back Pain After Artificial Disc Replacement Surgery and What to do About it

If you had artificial disc replacement surgery you were probably hoping that your back pain would go away. So you may be surprised when you have new post-surgery. In this video Dr. Chappell of In2It Medical shares why pain is common and what can be done to alleviate it.
Learn more at www.In2ItMedical.com

[@vitamindmusic607]

This is Distention pain. Sometimes caused by the surgeon not choosing the right size disc too. Activ L has the smallest choice of 8.5mm. Some people get a 10 or 12mm when they need a 8.5mm and suffer tremendously from the distention. This is also compounded if they have multiple levels done. Based on your natural anatomy before your disc was degenerated. So if you are getting ADR make sure you ask your doctor what size they are using and why.

[@SpeakMichelle]

I love all of the visuals you used in this video. It was helpful to have those visual aids.

[@joeg9810]

Good info, thanks!

[@SimonM5]

This is great information, thanks for sharing.

[@In2itMedical]

Glad it was helpful!

[@dre9299]

Very informative video thank you. On average how long does this ligament sprain take to heal ?

[@danspaghetti2797]

Very helpful and informative

[@In2itMedical]

Thank you, Dan!

[@TimHWolfe]

Great explaination !!! My neurosurgeon didn’t say anything regarding the pain afterwards. Thank You for this information.

[@In2itMedical]

Glad it was helpful!

[@scorpioempress7731]

@@In2itMedical I had C6-C7 disc replacement 2 weeks ago and started experiencing lower back pain to the point its hard to get out of bed. Am my doctor he dismissed it saying it probably another issue. Do u think it will go away or need ante procedure?

[@Interdiction]

Great video using easy to follow terminology very informative . Would a spinal fusion be superior to disk replacement ?

[@cliffbeutler5954]

How bout a l3 s1- fusion 3 new discs and si joints screws long time my back to pelvis 3 major back surgery on lumbar also laminectomy will it ever hold biggest screws they could use cause loose screws 7 out of 8 now have 10 and 2 very long ones threw my SI joints threw pelvis

[@steveconnelly9207]

I was hoping you knew someone you could recommend to me.

[@tanyabranco2936]

Would you have any info if you develop some calcification behind the disc one year after disc replacement?

[@lizzystar5346]

Thanks so much for explaining this. I’ve been very scared to do this procedure that I desperately need but it’s comforting to know that the one if the complication after the surgery can be treated with injections. Thanks again

[@Finestizpro]

They are not FDA approved !! they always never mention it i dont know why doctors recommend it when they have so many devastating side effects

[@rhouser1280]

@@Finestizpro what is not approved?

[@Finestizpro]

@@rhouser1280 epidural steroid shots

[@rhouser1280]

@@Finestizpro thank you

[@makobarissa100]

Hi Doc where are you am in kenya Nairobi

[@bmp713]

Is this the same mechanism that causes sharp pain down between the shoulder blades after cervical disc replacement? Do you know how long it usually takes for this pain to resolve after CDR surgery? Are there exercises or stretches I can do to help improve this pain? Which muscles can you strengthen to take strain off of the stretched ligaments?

[@stefankawase]

I developed plantar fasciitis right after a 2 level lumbar disc replacement, similar to the one you showed in the video. Is that common?

[@aprilcrnich3142]

You seem very knowledgeable.Where are you located (I’m in Washington State)? I am a 47 year old female in good health, and just had (about 3 weeks ago)a cervical spine disc replacement, in the c6-c7,but am feeling worse than before the surgery. Also had a hip reconstruction around 2011, and a total hip replacement around 2020 (all on the right side). I asked and asked if the two could be related, but was told no. Just searching for an honest answer. I think they are connected.

[@FranklinGray]

I believe I need this. 3 years ago I went to a Chiropractor. He took x-rays and said I didn't have much if any cartilage in my bottom 2 rings of my spine. At the time I didn't feel much problems in my back. I went to him for other reasons that I thought might be related to a back problem I had months earlier. Now I feel it. I can't walk more than a few hundred yards without feeling pain in my back. I have been trying to find somebody here in Colorado to perform a disc replacement but nobody seems to want to do them anymore. I guess because of customers complaining of pain after the surgery. Seems they all want to do Fusion instead. How comes this isn't a problem in Fusion surgery? Does the pain go away after a while without additional treatments as the ligaments adjust to the new discs?

[@user-pn5pz2yi9s]

Doesn't increased pressure in the back spine segment indicate excessive implant height? How then the right height of an artificial disc should be measured?

[@cliffbeutler5954]

I wanna work but every year I break down above or below fusion disability none no money when I can't help myself it very hard

[@garyheller62]

I went to Munich, Germany, 22 years ago for an L4/5 disc replacement. The results are and have been brilliant. I was discharged after 5 days and three days later I traveled, alone and unassisted, back the the USA. At the time, my surgeon said that my L3/4 was borderline, but that I might get through the rest of my life without another surgery if I "babied myself". Apparently, I didn't baby myself enough and now L3/4 is causing me quite a bit of grief and affecting my quality of life. Is there anyone on this channel that could recommend a good disc surgeon in the USA? My original surgeon, Dr. Willem Zeegers, has passed away. Thanks in advance.

[@jamaanders1817]

I just used Jazini from Virginia Spine institute

[@naomibarreto5518]

Dr. Todd Lanman in CA

[@brians2328]

In the US I agree, Tod Lanman is the guy in this scenario. In Germany I'd highly recommend Andreas Schmitz in Dusseldorf, I had 3 levels done.. He is as experienced as it gets, neurosurgeon and he owns the hospital!! Phenomenal!! It will be much cheaper in Germany but those would be my 2 choices!!

[@garyheller62]

@@brians2328 Thank you so much!

[@garyheller62]

@@jamaanders1817 Thank you!

[@Raj-ul9my]

So I had one in c5/c6 woke up all my pain got after 3 months pain come back I found out it calcified and bone spurs grew around it…….and it’s close to my spinal cord….also the disc replacement did not do anything to my facet joint pain at the same level fusion does…….so it was a big mistake and I will have to have a revision surgery end of year 😢

[@jillmacarthur6226]

I had an L5/S1 fusion & L4/5 disc replacement in 2014. I'm suddenly having excessive lower back pain & leg pain down the outer right thigh. So bad it's painful to put weight on my leg at times... Why so sudden & continuous?

[@FranklinGray]

Also, how long do these artificial discs last?

[@jirkahlavaty7878]

Great video. Now I need to find good doctor

[@In2itMedical]

Best of luck! If you decide to come out to Utah, let us know and we'll get you scheduled. We can also set you up with a virtual visit to see if you'd be a candidate for treatment here prior to traveling. www.in2itmedical.com/hotel-reservation

[@jirkahlavaty7878]

Thank u for you reply. Honestly I don’t care where i go im even considering Germany or Czech Republic. I got surgery 14 years ago which I regret because it got worse and now my legs are burning 24/7 . The doctor who did it got in trouble later in with other patients for just opening them and closing me them . Plus before was not as much research like today . So I really hope to find someone who cares for people’s life ..

[@georgeharleydavidsonrider156]

I’ve had a previous spinal fusion surgery L5 L4 L3. Is there any way I can do two levels artificial disc above my fusion. Can you please get back to me. Thank you 🙏

[@mickypoole9226]

they can. Why would you want to unless you have Degenerative disc disease at the above levels ?

[@rp_FGBWA7700]

Dr. Are you saying that the stem cell used from other cartilage in the body is what is used (injected) to replace the disc?

[@devdroid9606]

No. An artificial disk is a metal implant, much like a car's ball joint or a hip replacement prosthesis.

[@KBradAdams]

I heard PLP and Stem Cells do not work for back pain! this must be an old video!

[@Dadspoke]

Is this applicable to the cervical part of the spine?

[@gobigorange]

I think the answer is yes, I’m not a doctor but I did sleep at a holiday inn last night

[@ThisTall]

What is the long term failure rate of this procedure? Like just people complaining of pain?

[@justinevans5948]

I had my L3,L4 LEVEL replaced 5 months ago in Melbourne, Australia. I have this exact pain but my surgeon said it was likely the disc that is slightly degenerated below And I’ll probably need another surgery down the track. I’m 39 and really want to be active again, this video has given me hope that he may be wrong and I may heal yet. What’s the procedure called exactly as I’m not sure if anyone is doing it in Oz. Thank you

[@kls-koreanlifestyle6455]

How are you now

[@gtrdk8205]

HELP HELP i got 3 times herniated surgery bud it come back efter 4-6 mont. the 4th surgery was fusion with scew and some bone cage. it help 60% but i have no stability can even take my shoes on. is possible to remove the fusion and make new M6L Lumbar surgey in replace????????

[@aaronsoule8484]

Yes in Germany at STENUM by Dr. Ritter- Lang or Jan Spieler.. Exceptional experience

[@gtrdk8205]

@@aaronsoule8484 ok but why some doctors tell: if no artificial surgery than last option is fusion?

[@aaronsoule8484]

@@gtrdk8205 every situation is unique but finding the right doctor/clinic is important....fusion is sometimes necessary but disc replacement is mostly preferred if possible. A good doctor will be honest about risk and possible complications...and further surgery/fusion. My situation was good for straight forward disc replacement by experienced surgeon at EnAnde in Germany... Some situations would warrant fusion or even a combination of fusion/ spine reconstruction and disc replacement... So finding an experienced surgeon is key...there are too few at this time....bit at least there are some!

[@gtrdk8205]

@@aaronsoule8484 Ok thanks for advise.

[@musicladyd1982]

I’m scheduled for a lumbar disc replacement in a month and this is the first I’m hearing of this ligament stretching pain. It’s giving me some pause. Do you ever recommend not getting the disc replacement? Or is it still smart to get the replacement and just plan for the regenerative treatment?

[@In2itMedical]

Hi Danielle! We hope its not too late for this response. If you'd like, we can schedule a consultation via Telemedicine if you're not from Utah. Dr Chappell can review your history and any imaging you may have. 801-610-7321

[@earlofmar7987]

I read your post and wanted to see how you are doing? Is Therapy helping? Has your doctor suggested your get the Stem Cell Treatment?

[@devinramdihal8149]

get the disc replacement .dont ever fused your spine .i hav a dics replacement it give me beter life .

[@rp_FGBWA7700]

@@In2itMedical I know every case is different, but should one do more stretching exercise and strengthen the back before surgery is considered?

[@bengt_axle]

@@rp_FGBWA7700 I've had several surgeries. I'd recommend trying to resolve your problem without surgery (flexibility and core strength) for at least a couple of years, provided you have no serious problems like incontinence or loss of muscle mass. If your only problem is pain and numbness, then yes, pursue an exercise and rehabilitation program. The vast majority of simple disc herniations will heal without surgery.

[@lisacystian879]

I had l5 s1 disc replacement and fusion surgery. Was done 7 months ago. I am in agony. It's unbelievable every day I think I'm going to get better and I don't .

[@BloominOnion1]

replaced and fused?

[@gobigorange]

It was 2 an a half years before I got any relief. Stop working an if you smoke, Stop.

[@ive_beenthere_2638]

​@@gobigorange did have a replacement done or fusion? I'm scheduled to have a replacement in June 2023. Can you tell me what I should be expecting? Realistically.

[@brians2328]

​@ive_beenthere_2638 Disc replacement 3 to 6 months you'll be better.. 2 level lumbar here

[@ive_beenthere_2638]

@@brians2328 Thanks for the reply. How bad is it shortly after the surgery? Will I be able to move on my own, or will I require some assistance?

[@rob3412]

I had 2 level ADR 21 days ago . The distraction pain usually goes away 2-3 weeks . Mine slowly went away.

[@brians2328]

2 level lumbar lp-esp about 4 months out now, best decision of my life!

[@rickyg3879]

Where did you get your surgery done?

[@rickyg3879]

@@brians2328where did you get your surgery done?

[@brians2328]

@@rickyg3879 Clinic Bel Etage, Dusseldorf Germany 🇩🇪

[@utkukavukoglu6693]

Hey, i hope you are doing well. How are you feeling? Any pain? Could you start doing basic sports? Do you recommend this surgery?

[@123Goldhunter11]

But - if you went to Mexico and got umbilical chord stem cells and growth factors - would you even need a disc replacement?

[@brians2328]

Disc is hypoxic environment, once it crosses a certain point there is no chance cells will help, it's Necrotic tissue

[@steveconnelly9207]

My doctors here in SC don't even know what an artificial disc is. My back shows the same stuff you show in your as exrays. My docs keep telling me it ain't nothing but arthritis and that's a bunch of bull. I've been suffering with this condition for the last 60 years. Can you recommend someone in SC that does the artificial disc replacements. I'd surely love to know because you can''t find them in the yellow pages! Sincerely, Steven A Connelly

[@kingloz36]

There's the South Carolina spine centre? Have a look on Google there's a few

[@brians2328]

Go to Germany look for lp-esp disc, best disc in the world. 2 levels done 4 months ago, best decision of my life!

[@juicegeneral5082]

What about the part where if it goes bad you can't replace it?

[@AJohnson0325]

Then some doctors may want to do a fusion if there is a problem with the disc replacement

[@davidjenkins1958]

I had disc replacement at S1-L5 four years ago, I go through this pain and my pain management Dr only does cortisone injections. I find when I do work that requires stretching or reaching for an extended amount of time the injections only lasts about 2 weeks then back to square one. What is more beneficial? What you do or the cortisone injections from pain management ? And who would I look for to get the injections that you do? Thank you in advance. Dave Jenkins

[@In2itMedical]

Sorry, we didn't see your message sooner to respond a little faster. The cortisone injections are not "fixing" the cause of the pain - they are simply just providing pain relief - just like taking an oral steroid or anti-inflammatory would - it relieves pain, but doesn't fix the problem. Regenerative injections are using the body's natural cells to stimulate actual healing where there is damaged tissue. The hope is this will fix the root of the pain. We do see a lot of patients from out of state, and we are happy to set up a virtual visit if you'd like to see if you're a candidate for treatment prior to traveling to us. However, if you are looking for someone local, please make sure that you find a physician (MD or DO) who specializes in musculoskeletal medicine and who preferably is certified in musculoskeletal ultrasound (you would look for someone with the credentials of RMSK). Good luck and let us know if you'd like to set up a virtual/telehealth visit.

[@nolanpaul52]

Dave are you happy with the disc replacement results?

[@davidjenkins1958]

@@nolanpaul52 no, it feels like I am back to square one with the pain. The only thing it has done for me is allow me to stand up straight. But sometimes when the pain gets real bad I find myself Hun he’d over again.

[@nolanpaul52]

@@davidjenkins1958 sorry to hear that. I’ve been considering disc replacement. Did it get you any years of relief or would you advise against it? Thanks

[@davidjenkins1958]

@@nolanpaul52 my problem was I actually needed 3 discs done S1-L5. L5-L4, and L4-L3. Because of my age at the time ( 57 ) the surgeon would only do the worse one which was S1-L5. He said due to my age it was too much of a surgery. He would have cut me in the front to replace the 3 discs, cut me on my hip to harvest bone for the fusion of all 3, then cut me in the back to do the fusion of all 3. With what he did he did not need to do the fusion. But again I needed all 3 done and he only did one and never mentioned the other 2

[@ibrahimgomaa9781]

Is it possible to ride a motorcycle after spinal surgery?

[@kingloz36]

If it's possible to sit then it's possible to ride

[@jamescaliendo1030]

Im looking for disc replacement surgery. The pain im now would be nothing compared to ligament pain due to them being stretched. Eventually theyll stretch enough to not cause any pain.

[@mike_AD]

Thats what alot of people told me. "You will be in so much pain after surgery" And I just laughed at them. They have never experienced the debilitating and crippling pain of disks pressing on your nerves. I got the surgery done 1 week ago, and I'm trying to figure out the best way to recover and get pain free right now. But its true, the post surgery pain is NOTHING compared to when your back goes out from the herniation 🤣

[@jamescaliendo1030]

@mike_AD funny you replied. I'm 7 weeks post op from lumbar ADR surgery at L5S1/L4L5. I feel like I'm 17 again man!!!!! No pain at all. I'm back training again in the gym, walking 4-6 miles a day. Dropped over 25 lbs, and heading back to work july 15th. Best decision I ever made Mike!

[@jamescaliendo1030]

@mike_AD ahhhhh Mike I'd love to talk to you! Maybe via phone?

[@mike_AD]

@@jamescaliendo1030 wow thats amazing! I'm so happy for you man... I'm 8 days out... i have some pain in legs, hips and glutes mostly. The actual back pain from my disc is gone, although i still have some nerve pain. Any thoughts? How was your first few weeks with pain?

[@jamescaliendo1030]

@mike_AD mike is there a way I can get in touch with you via phone? Like if I posted my number here, then delete it?

[@RenedelapazReyesguevara-8974]

cia k48

[@jonwzee]

Maybe it's obvious, but wouldn't people have the same painful "sprain and stretching" issues if they had the old style American fusion surgery?

[@Bucketdrummer]

Yes for ligament stretch. In fusion, the facets no longer move, so facet pain not so much an issue. This ligament distraction pain goes away with gentle stretching. This regen stuff should be avoided. Sorry to the Drs pushing this stuff.

[@jonwzee]

@@Bucketdrummer Thanks for the explanation. Ironically, I'm casually looking into the "regen stuff" for painful tennis related rotator cuff tears. But have to resolve cervical spine issues first.

[@devdroid9606]

The joint is often removed in fusion surgery (TLIF).

[@johnb4183]

Distension pain .........................

[@theresageiger584]

WHAT ABOUT THE NECK

[@tracyfortier1528]

Does this treatment help with cervical disc replacement that was performed 4 years ago?

[@In2itMedical]

Hi Tracy, we offer Telemedicine appointments if you are not from Utah. Call our office and get scheduled so we can discuss your pain 801-610-7321.

[@tracyfortier1528]

@@In2itMedical I just saw your response. It went to my social part of my email. I will call Monday. Dec 20

[@Stavrosg76]

its called distraction pain and it goes away with physical therapy and time

[@Stavrosg76]

@Frank Lopez give it some time, and you will need physical therapy until your muscles and tendons stretch out to accommodate your new discs...where did u have that done?

[@Stavrosg76]

@Frank Lopez 3 levels is a lot of stretch..

[@Stavrosg76]

@Frank Lopez do you know which device model was used for your neck?

[@Stavrosg76]

@Frank Lopez nice, the M6-c is currently the best device

[@nikitagulin536]

@@Stavrosg76are you sure of that? May be pro-disc? Activ? Lp-esp?

[@earlofmar7987]

Just found out I've got Degenerative Disc Disease. The Stem Cell Replacement Therapy is not covered by Medicare. I wouldn't think that even my Cross Over Insurance would cover that either. I've heard that each treatment cost around $2800.00.

[@juicegeneral5082]

That's nothing where are you? It's 6500 in California

[@earlofmar7987]

@@juicegeneral5082 I'm just due north of Houston, TX in a small town named Tomball. But they have one of the best regional Hospital's in all of Houston area. My doctor, is a young Orthopedic Surgeon, that has really been perfecting this technique. It did start out around 10K.

[@juicegeneral5082]

@@earlofmar7987 is it 10k or 28 hundred? Have you had the procedure? Im willing to try anything at this point

[@earlofmar7987]

@@juicegeneral5082 At my doctor's office, it's $2800.00 for stem cell injections to the Back. I've never had it done in an Orthopedic procedure. I had it done to a burn I received on my face. It was like a miracle. Not covered by Insurance.

[@juicegeneral5082]

@@earlofmar7987 that's worth the fight down to Texas... Does your Dr inject them strait into the spine?

[@RJPara]

You should ask for double blind placebo studies from you doctor before you allow this treatment. If there are no studies there is no proof. Its a lets try this and maybe it will help you....but you will definitely be lighter...