Herniated discs at C3 and C4

[Ally972]

I am experiencing trouble swallowing, severe neck pain, shoulder pain, headaches and pain between shoulder blades. Due to see my Surgeon at RNOH Stanmore, Middlesex, England on 7th May 2010. Have had injections done through side of my neck but if anything pain level has risen! What should I ask him for in the way of treatment. I have also had extensive physiotherapy which also worsened pain.

[Ally972]

Had ACDF surgery in September 2010 to C4/5/6 which were removed and replaced with titanium discs and fusion. I seemed to be making an excellent recovery but since early January 2011 the pain in my neck and shoulders has returned with a vengeance. Have to get MRI scan of complete spine and CT scan of lower spine on 4th March then see Spinal Surgeon on 11th March for outcome. Also had PLIF operation in December 2008 which Surgeon says has put undue stress on top of spine! Hope it is not another herniated disc around C7 area.

[Kalvin]

You've had an interesting life, it's unfortunate about the radiation.
Good Luck on your surgery.

Take Care

[Ally972]

Thanks for your comments. Saw Surgeon on 7th May and he has decided to operate to remove discs. I had major spinal surgery in lumbar region in December 2008. I am going for a CT Scan also MRI Scan to check cervical area but also to ensure last surgery has fused okay as still getting bad pain just above right buttock! My spine has deteriorated due to being a Nuclear Test Veteran - I was in Navy and present for a number of Atomic Bomb Tests on Christmas Island in Pacific in 1958. We were exposed to high levels of radiation unfortunately!

Kind regards.
Alistair