Candidates usually experience persistent neck pain together with significant arm pain, sometimes lasting 6 weeks or longer. There is usually numbness, tingling, or weakness in the hands or arms. This treatment becomes an option only after conservative treatments, such as physical therapy, injections, and medications, have failed. Also, an MRI/CT scan shows a clear disc herniation or bone spur, where an MRI has confirmed nerve or spinal cord compression. If your neurological symptoms worsen and are associated with physical signs, you may need further evaluation.
Is neck pain or numbness in your arm preventing you from living comfortably?
Disclaimer
*If symptoms are worsening, an evaluation should be more immediate.
Disclaimer
*Whenever appropriate, Lone Star Orthopaedic and Spine will always explore conservative, non-surgical treatments as first options to relieve pain and improve function before considering surgical intervention.
The procedure begins with a small incision in the front of the neck to remove the damaged disc, relieving the pressure of nerve or spinal cord compression. Then the surgeon places a bone graft or spacer and stabilizes the vertebrae with a plate and screws. Eventually, the bones fuse. This procedure traditionally relieves the above-mentioned symptoms of neck and arm pain, and associated numbness, tingling, or weakness, traditionally caused by the following:
After surgery, it is common to experience initial stiffness. The surgeon may prescribe either a soft or a hard collar for support. Patients often begin walking the same or the next day. Additionally, patients recovering from surgery may face temporary restrictions on driving. Most individuals can resume light activities within 2-3 weeks, as they regain their functional mobility.
The risk of recurrence on the treated level is low because the physician has permanently fused the bones. However, stress around nearby levels may occur over time.
Che small 1–2-inch incision follows the natural skin creases of the neck, typically fading over time, and is minimally visible once fully healed.
In 1–2 weeks, expect mild to moderate soreness; focus on rest, light walking, and desk work. In 3-6 weeks, a gradual return to daily activities and physical therapy may begin. In 7-12 weeks, a return to most daily activities as bone fusion begins to solidify. Within 3 to 12 months, bone fusion occurs, and the physician confirms this through an X-ray.
Typically, keeping the incision site dry for the first few days, following cervical collar instructions, and medical guidance if prescribed. Additionally, temporarily avoid heavy lifting (more than 10–15 pounds) and high-impact activities, and attend and follow instructions given in follow-up appointments.
Disclaimer
*This information is for general educational purposes only. It does not replace the personalized medical advice, diagnosis, or prognosis of a licensed physician.
At Lone Star Orthopedic and Spine Specialists, our medical team dedicates itself to restoring you to an active lifestyle by eliminating the debilitating neck and arm pain that is holding you back from the daily activities with the people you love. Imagine waking up without radiating arm pain, but with steady hands, restored strength, and mobility. Call (817) 926-BONE (2663) to start your journey today.
