Too much time to think and freak out - Spinal Cord Disorders Message Board

SKZ · 12-02-2006, 02:08 PM

Well today I was really on a roll on this board. Besides posting, I was reading people's previous posts. My compulsiveness is becoming very apparent! I have read on here that some people had trouble breathing in the hospital after their ACDF. A good friend of mine had the surgery and he had this too. NOW , I am starting to panic. I am even second guessing if its the right thing to do ACDF. I have 2 weeks before the surgeon appt., which is 2 weeks too long! I also keep reading that while the ACDF has helped their neurological symptoms, it has not particularly helped their pain. Well, I have numb hands (mostly when I sleep), but nothing horribly major like some I have read about. My biggest nightmare is not being able to sit for any decent length of time without wanting to scream. (or stand up for any lenth of time, like when I teach). I wouldnt want to have this surgery if it wont help my pain!

OK, time to take a ^%&*# Xanax,. LOL

SKZ · 12-02-2006, 03:43 PM

I have seriously tried everything a person can try. In the last 4 1/2 years I have gone to Phys. Therapy at least 8 times. I lost count. My physiatrist has a P.T. in his office that I liked alot. She has me doing Pilates based stuff, which feels like the best so far of all I have tried. I have had every injection, (no kiddin on that one) gone to chiropractors, massage, acupuncture....you name it, I have had it. My physiatrist told me I am at the end of the line. The idea of living like this and feeling so disabled is such a bummer. I just would hate to get worse from the surgery...pain-wise.
Thanks for responding. I really appreciate it.

SKZ · 12-02-2006, 07:09 PM

Hysterectomy a Cake Walk ??? oy vey! I had a tummy tuck about 10 yrs ago and that was pretty intense. Makes me really look forward to the ACDF. NOT!

SpineAZ · 12-02-2006, 08:00 PM

SKZ - I found the ACDF surgery MUCH MUCH easier and FAR less painful than most other surgery I've had (and I've had tons). It was much easier than my knee ACL repair, my ovary removal, my lumbar fusion, etc.

SKZ · 12-03-2006, 08:09 AM

I am definitely glad you clarified that about the pain part. I will make sure and do the walking everyday. Its freezing here and icy, so my treadmill will come in handy.