neck pain

[flipper60]

I recently had an ACDF in Apil,in which they didn't use a bone graft.I think there was an artificial disc and titanium plate used.I still have pain and numbness in my left arm.I also have severe pain in my neck when I turn it to the side or up and down.I was assured that by now I would be pretty much pain free but here I am asking why I'm not!! I had an appointment in May and June,and in the doctors notes he stated if I didn't improve then he wanted to do an MRI and CT scan with contrast and a nerve velocity test.I would really appreciate another opinion of what is going on with me.I was injured on the job and haven't received the best medical treatment.I also have one other symptom,my neck makes a popping noise all the time and when I move my head it sounds as if I have gravel in my neck.Any insight would be greatly appreciated.

[flipper60]

I did have pt, post op.I actually did 16 weeks of it.I could tell that it made me stronger,but now I still am dealing with the neck pain.There is one plus to the surgery it eliminated my headaches.The doctor told me that the nerve could take up to 18 month's to heal or it could be possibly damaged and never heal.

[toolmaker]

Did you have pt postop?I was told that it could take a year for the nerves to heal.I had an ACDF 3 years ago.I still have some arm and neck pain plus occasional numbness in my thumb.I am not 100% cured but I am  grateful for the surgical improvements.