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What Are Chances Of Disc Degeneration After Replacing C5-6 Disc?
Question: Hello, I had my C5-6 disc replaced in March 2014. I was told that I have a 5 to 10% chance of having problems with my C4-5 in the future because that disc is bulging. My accident caused my C5-6 to hit my spinal cord. I am healthy and very fit, I am a personal trainer. I never had pain just nerve damage pain immediately after I fell while skiing. I am wondering how likely it is that I will have an increased chance of degeneration above or below my fusion? Also, I exercise on a regular basis but have not been doing neck flexor exercises, but I do a lot of plank exercises and resistance training for my whole body, is that enough to strengthen my neck muscles? Thank you in advance. XXXXXXX XXXXXXX Canada
Brief Answer:
Yes there is long term chance of degeneration above and below level of fusi
Detailed Answer:
Hello,
I have studied your case.
Yes there is long term chance of degeneration above and below level of fusion due to decreased movement at fusion level.
But do not worry about it.
Along with plank exercises you need to focus on neck extension exercises.
You need to learn against resistance exercises for neck, those exercises will help you.
Shoulder shrugging exercises will also help in long term.
You can consult physiotherapist for help.
I will advise to check your vit B12 and vit D3 level.
You can do jogging but avoid jumping exercises.
Hope this answers your query. If you have additional questions or follow up queries then please do not hesitate in writing to us. I will be happy to answer your queries.
Wishing you good health
Take care.
Yes there is long term chance of degeneration above and below level of fusi
Detailed Answer:
Hello,
I have studied your case.
Yes there is long term chance of degeneration above and below level of fusion due to decreased movement at fusion level.
But do not worry about it.
Along with plank exercises you need to focus on neck extension exercises.
You need to learn against resistance exercises for neck, those exercises will help you.
Shoulder shrugging exercises will also help in long term.
You can consult physiotherapist for help.
I will advise to check your vit B12 and vit D3 level.
You can do jogging but avoid jumping exercises.
Hope this answers your query. If you have additional questions or follow up queries then please do not hesitate in writing to us. I will be happy to answer your queries.
Wishing you good health
Take care.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Bhagyalaxmi Nalaparaju
Hello Dr. XXXXXXX
I would like to know more about how my B12 and D3 levels help in my situation, is this to do with the healing process? Also, are there any supplements that you recommend I take on a regular basis? I take D3 everyday and I also tend to have low iron levels so I am tested for my B12, Ferritin and Hemoglobin levels every 2 months.
Thank you. XXXXXXX
I would like to know more about how my B12 and D3 levels help in my situation, is this to do with the healing process? Also, are there any supplements that you recommend I take on a regular basis? I take D3 everyday and I also tend to have low iron levels so I am tested for my B12, Ferritin and Hemoglobin levels every 2 months.
Thank you. XXXXXXX
Brief Answer:
Explained below
Detailed Answer:
Hello again
Vitamin B12 has role in functioning of nerve conduction if there are low level then mild nerve compression can lead to more damage of nerve and subsequently more spine pain.
B12 also help in bone building thus strengthening your spine.
Vit D3 is important for bone maintenance; low level can cause weakness of vertebral artchitecture. Weak vertebral bone can lead to diffuse spine pain.
Thus both will help in spine post operative healing and strengthening.
You can take vitamin C for early healing.
That’s good that you are taking supplement on regular basis.
Wishing you good health.
Take care
Explained below
Detailed Answer:
Hello again
Vitamin B12 has role in functioning of nerve conduction if there are low level then mild nerve compression can lead to more damage of nerve and subsequently more spine pain.
B12 also help in bone building thus strengthening your spine.
Vit D3 is important for bone maintenance; low level can cause weakness of vertebral artchitecture. Weak vertebral bone can lead to diffuse spine pain.
Thus both will help in spine post operative healing and strengthening.
You can take vitamin C for early healing.
That’s good that you are taking supplement on regular basis.
Wishing you good health.
Take care
Note: For further queries, consult a joint and bone specialist, an Orthopaedic surgeon. Book a Call now.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Bhagyalaxmi Nalaparaju
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