HNP C5-6 s/p ACDF C5-6 in 2/2008

[mchicha]

PPI rating 24% body as a whole; lifetime restriction of no lift, push, pull over 20 pounds.  

Would this affect ability to do frequent reaching, including overhead?  Although the restrictions are for weights 20 pounds and over, would it be detrimental to frequently lift, push or pull 10 pounds?

Are there any studies or articles regarding recommended activity restrictions after ACDF?

[mchicha]

Surgery included corpectomy.  Notes with impairment rating reference altered motion segment.  

Cervical spine has multiple levels of degeneration including disk bulge at c3-4 but none so severe as the one operated on.  Had radiculopathy but it resolved after surgery.  Cervical pain still continues after surgery.

[Kalvin]

I don't think I've heard of restrictions like these for a single level fusion, do you have other things wrong with your neck? Generally, we're all placed on restrictions immediately following surgery, but once your fused they pretty much let you do whatever you want.

I had no restrictions after I fused and my work was very physical at that time, I also worked with a guy that had had a 3 level and he pretty much did everything everybody else did. We both had pain, but after awhile you just have to learn to live with it.

I haven't had any trouble reaching, except that I find that my arms tire quickly. What I do have a problem with is looking up, down and behind me. And I don't have a problem lifting or pushing 10 1bs. There has to something more to your condition than just having a single level fusion.


Take Care