ACDF Healing - Spinal Cord Disorders Message Board

TINCAN · 12-11-2006, 09:57 AM

Hello all

I had an ACDF on C5-6 & C6-7 on Oct. 24th. The first week was a little rough. The second and third week was great. The fourth, fifth was pretty good. Now the problem is MUSCLE SPASAMS these spasams are pretty miserable. I have the spasams across my shoulders and my sides and back of my neck. This is my 4th spinal surgery so I am pretty sure they will just go away but I was wondering if anyone else had this problem. I am on Zanaflex and I am going to PT. Any input would be great. I hope you all have a blessed day!!

TINCAN
LAMINECTOMY L5-S1
DISCTECTOMY L5-S1
FUSION L5-S1 WITH HARDWARE
ACDF C5-6, C6-7
FBSS
BONE SPURS
MEGA SCAR TISSUE
DDD IN THE LUMBAR AREA,THORASIC AREA AND CERVICAL AREA
DISK BULGES @ C3-4, C4-5,T3-4,T4-5,L-4
STENOSIS
SPONDYLIOSIS

julyg · 12-11-2006, 10:24 AM

Hi i had exact same surgery mid Oct. and i am still having spasms (terrible kind) This is was why I had the surgery, to stop the pain! Anyway i am focusing on PT, correct posture, ice and heat. The only relief i get from drugs are narcotic drugs and i do not want to take them. I have bought a variety of shaped heat and cold packs and they do work. Others on this board say it takes months for the spasms to go away. Anyway I feel your pain!

PNo · 12-12-2006, 04:34 PM

Ouch on those spasms! Try more heat theapy-- it helps mine alot. If you can break the cycle with the muscle relaxers try it, faithfully taking them as presribed for a few days you might find it will break the spasm cycle. Also I have used some meditation type relaxation and really focus in on those muscles. Stop carrying your purse if you have one.

Did you wear a collar after surgery? if so you might try putting it back on for a few hours a day and re-weaning yourself off it. Building up your neck muscles, talk to PT.

Good luck.

bw67 · 12-12-2006, 09:09 PM

my doctor prescribed FLEXIRIL for my spasms...

BW

Tucsonlady40 · 12-13-2006, 09:30 PM

Tincan,

I used heat and ice to help relieve my spasms. Also, when you can, rest, rest and rest. Your only 2 1/2 months into recovery and while your initial pain maybe gone, your surgery pains will get better, but with time.

If the med that they prescribed for you isn't working, call and see if they can prescribe something else.

Good luck to you,
Bernie