rainsummer

[LLWB]

Hope you are healing well. My throat is still sore, and a big knot along the incision, but the worst of my problems is that across the back of my neck and down my left shoulder I have fairly severe pain Maybe a 6-7. And left arm still very weak. Do you have this problem or know anything about it? It is worse since the surgery. Thank the Lord that my migrains have gone away.completely! Not a one since surgery. But the pain and weakness in the left shoulder and arm worry me. I'm supposed to return to work July 5th, and don't see my neuro until July 16th, just said to call for work release form. Also, (I'm a worrier) what do they do if fusion doesn't take place? And I also have a painful cough, but there is a virus going around my area I may have caught. I hope you are healing well, how is your energy level? I have been behaving myself as far as lifting, etc. so that can't be causing the pain.Are you still on pain meds? A neighbor had the same surgery 2 months ago, and she is already back at work cleaning houses. Mine included! Maybe I'm just expecting too much too soon. Any thoughts? Thanx, God Bless

[rainsummer]

Hi, LLWB I sorry you are still in pain!...No I'm not in any pain...I have alot of stiffness and soreness in my shoulders and neck..My throat must swell some at the end of the day because I start to feel alot of pressure in my throat. I have to wear a soft collar for three months, but I'm not sure I will make it...it puts pressure on my shoulders and bottom of ears and is breaking down the skin on my neck.

I have alot of weakness in my neck and shoulders as far as energy...I think, I feel pretty good til I get up and about...and my shoulders and neck just are so weak...I have to sit down...even sitting at the computer...flairs it all up.

I never had the first headache with my neck...but the symptoms I did have are gone...I'm only taking tylenol at this point..and alot of rest...You go back to work on july 5th? How far out from surgey will you be?

Have you had your x-ray yet to check everything..I had mine last week ...and all my stuff looked good. I dont even want to think about not fusing...its too much to take in.

If I were you and had a 6/7 pain level I would call my doctor...is it nerve pain ?

Hope you feel better soon!

[LLWB]

I will be out of surgery a month when I go back, and no X-rays until I see neuro on July 16th. I do think it is nerve pain. I was feeling so good today I walked in my Condo's swimming pool, about chest level, gently moving my arms back and forth. Now this evening I've had to take 3 muscle relaxers, and a vicodine because I'm hurting so bad. I hope it is just the nerves waking up again. I am so glad you are doing well and the X-rays look good! I probably just felt so "normal" for a change I overdid it.  I hope anyway. The dr wants me walking a mile before I return to see him, and I thought the pool walking would be less resistance for my system. If I still feel bad tomorrow, I think I'll follow your advice and call the doc. Long distance of course, and an hour trip to see him in person, but better safe than sorry. Thank you for replying.