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?
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.
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.
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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.
