neck and shoulder pain

[Elmwood7]

I hit my head on a pipe when walking down steps that snapped my head back.  That was in August 2010.  In february 2011 I had to have neck surgery from c-3 to c-7 fusion on each disk and a plate with 7 screws. There was pain after the surgery and nerve damage in the neck and both shoulders and arms.  I have not been able to work since then nor have I been able to do any of the things that I did before the accident.  I tried everything that I was asked to try, therapy, stimulator, hot pads, nothing worked.  For the last 6 months my pain level has increased.  I have more pain then I had before the surgery.  Why is this happening to me.

[Elmwood7]

Thank you for your answer, i go to the doctors on Wednesday.

[S. Kaul, MD]

Hi there!

I understand the situation you must be going through. Neurological conditions are often difficult to treat. It would be very difficult for me to suggest something online without knowing the relevant clinical details; though management in the situation should be based on treatment of the primary cause and adequate pain management. I would suggest discussing the situation, the suggested management plan and the expected prognosis in detail with your treating doctor. Referral to a pain management specialist may be considered if there is inadequate pain control with primary measures and/ or it is difficult to control the primary cause.  

Take care!