I Recently Had 2 Level Fusion C5-7. I Recently Had

Posted on Fri, 14 Aug 2020

Question: I recently had 2 level fusion c5-7. I recently had my 6 week x rays and everything looked good. At the beginning of week 7 recovery I had to do some landscaping and a little heavy lifting related to work, it could not be avoided. My neck is now hurting more than normal. Could a few days of bending and lifting lead to a non fusion or problems with the hardware? Than you for your time.

Answered by Dr. Aashish Raghu (1 hour later)

Brief Answer:
Answer

Detailed Answer:
Hi there

Thanks for the query

Usually the cervical spine is not a weight bearing region of the spine.

Even when you lifted something heavy the pain is likely due to stiff muscles being strained.

If you haven't developed any pins and needles sensation over the limbs or pain on moving the neck then not to worry. If yes, it's best to get an xray to rule out any injury.

I hope I have answered your query.

I will be available to answer your follow up queries.

Regards,

Aashish Raghu

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Kampana

Follow up: Dr. Aashish Raghu (3 hours later)

Thanks for an informative answer. My neck has been feeling very weak after the surgery. I am currently 7 weeks out from my surgery. Would it be to early in the recovery to start chin tucks to try to strengthen the neck muscles?

Answered by Dr. Aashish Raghu (1 hour later)

Brief Answer:
Answer as below

Detailed Answer:
I suppose you need a clinic visit to see if the fusion is sound which could necessitate a CT scan or x-ray to confirm.

If the fusion is sound you can start physiotherapy as recommended by the surgeon.

Regards

Note: For further queries, consult a joint and bone specialist, an Orthopaedic surgeon. Book a Call now.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Arnab Banerjee