What could it be??

[kdhasse]

I had ACDF with plating 7-25-08 due to neck pain, headcahes and arm weakness with tingling, I was released to go back to work 4 weeks later, I work for an ophthalmology practices and we do all the pre testing an work up for our doctors. I am in and out of the slitlamp all day. My neck has felt "stiff " since day one, I told my doctor and he said it was most likely due to the neck brace. I have been out of the neck brace for a couple of months now and still have the stiffness. Now over the last month but worsening daily I am getting cramping type pains were I am unable to move until my neck releases. I have to have my husband help me up by bracing my neck. My question is what could possibly be going on? I have tried muscle relaxors and all they do is make me tired the next day, heat helps a little but not much and I am taking percocet 7.5 with little help. PLEASE HELP me, I understand that you can only give me information but that would help. I see my doctor soon but I need some answers soon. THANK YOU!!! :)

[kdhasse]

Thank you everyone, I went to the doctors today, I have another MRI scheduled for next tuesday, they put me on new meds and depending on the results of the MRI I may have to do physical therapy. It prob. is the posture thing because I am not working today and my neck feels better. But if anyone else has more information I would love to here from them. THANKS again

[DrNoopurMD]

Hi,

Thanks for writing in.
Your symptoms could be due to poor posture because of the kind of work that you do. I would suggest you to take rest for few days, absolutely no bending of neck. Joint overuse and bad posture may have resulted in your present symptoms. It is important to get a clinical evaluation done.
Take care!

[selmaS]

I know of someone that had the same type of surgery and on occasion still needs to use her neck brace......I wounder were u dx with a condition?.....did u have MRI's of ur entire spine?...brain?.....my only thought would be for u to talk to my friend...or if there is someone here with the same type of surgery to share their experience.
I know u are aware that everyone reacts differently and people wiwth the exact same thing respond to the same treatments differently.

It always seems to me , that I always get a symptom or reaction that the drs say almost never happen...

sorry I can't be of more help.

Good luck
Godspeed
"selma"