Is My Recovery "normal"?

[bethy67]

I had c5-c6 fused about two and a half years ago,  Just this past Fall I began experiencing similar symptoms and went back to the Neurosurgeon who I was pleased with.  He said I had the option of physical therapy or surgery because now c7 was herniated.  I chose the PT which worked out fine.  A few weeks ago I began experiencing really bad nerve pain and was too afraid to try PT again as I felt I could not bear anymore pain so I went with surgery.  The Doctor said it would be wise to do the diskectomy and spinal fusion since this disk was going to continue being problematic.  From when I woke up in the Recovery room I was in agonizing pain.  I was later told he did something diffferent where he "capped off" the hernaited disc.  It has been a week now and I find myself crying every day.  My doctor has been ill and even though I have called his office three times, he does not get back to me.  One of his office staff suggested I go to the ER.  What I want to know is - is this normal?  Should I be experiencing this much pain?  I try to stay optimistic and keep hoping the pain will subside and it has not.  Painkillers have done nothing for me - they dont relieve it and they dont help me sleep.  I have been worried sick that I will not be able to resume my usual lifestyle.  

[bethy67]

Thank you for getting back to me and offering me some kind of hope.  I have been trying not to go to the ER but I think I will be going later this morning.  My follow up is for Monday but I dont think I can wait that long,  This is all so crazy.  

[PaulMD]

Hi, I have re-read your post and I think I must have misunderstood.  You already had the operation and has been having this pain.  I believe that all of this pain may be related to the healing process itself, since connective tissues in that area really requires time to heal.  The most you can do now is to get prescription for strong pain relievers, and to undergo physical therapy and rehabilitation.  Just make sure to have yourself checked by the doctor as soon as he gets well.  Regards and God bless.

[PaulMD]

Hi there.

I'm sorry to hear that you are in this much pain.  If the C7 disk really has a problem, then I am afraid that this pain might continue if a surgical intervention will not be undertaken.  Physical therapy may help but I doubt if it will achieve dramatic effects.  Once you have contacted your doctor, I suggest that you discuss with him in depth regarding your surgical options for your situation.  Make sure you understand the risks and benefit involved.  For now I also suggest you get prescription for the strongest pain relievers possible and avoid too much stress.

I hope you can be rid of this pain soon.
Regards and God bless.