Gearing up for surgery next week

[kittysmith]

Next Friday, I am having spine surgery for radiculopathy (pinched nerve in cervical spine). ACDF (Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion). I have been in pain since December with my 5th attack and am anxious to get it over with. I'm proud of myself for having worked through the worst pain I have ever experienced. Still have 1 more 12 hr shift after today. It's not MS related, but I have numbness, tingling, burning and excruciating nerve pain from my neck to my finger tips. I know I'm annoying. I had no idea I could get on my own nerves. Lol. Has anyone else ever had this procedure before?

[Seasha]

Hi kittysmith - I've never had any kind of back surgery, but had a pinched nerve in my lumbar region 20 years ago, so I know (and remember) the pain!! Just wanted to wish you well and hope all goes well. Will be thinking of you. Let us know how it goes!

[sardi_g]

I don't have any experience with this procedure. I'm fearful of pain and really feel for those dealing with it - MS or not. I have confidence in general with surgical procedures and I wish you the best and a speedy recovery. Take care of yourself and do all you can to make yourself comfortable.

[gargantua]

Next Friday, I am having spine surgery for radiculopathy (pinched nerve in cervical spine). ACDF (Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion). I have been in pain since December with my 5th attack and am anxious to get it over with. I'm proud of myself for having worked through the worst pain I have ever experienced. Still have 1 more 12 hr shift after today. It's not MS related, but I have numbness, tingling, burning and excruciating nerve pain from my neck to my finger tips. I know I'm annoying. I had no idea I could get on my own nerves. Lol. Has anyone else ever had this procedure before?

Wishing you the best and hoping everything goes fine for you next Friday, kittysmith!

[Myoak]

Hello,

You have my thoughts and prayers for an outstanding outcome, Kittysmith!!!!

[Jules A]

No experience with this exact condition but also wishing you a good outcome and speedy recovery.

[Tia1]

Im praying for a successful surgery and quick and complete recovery. Please give us an update as soon as you can.

[MyGirlsMom]

I am wishing wellness and less pain followingvthis upcoming procedure. You are strong and brave! We will be thinking of you kittysmith, so please do keep us posted! 🙏🏼🙏🏼

[MisterMan]

kittysmith,
Never had this but my thoughts are with you for a smooth and successful procedure!

[MermaidOP]

Dear kittysmith,
My thoughts are with you for your surgery. Good luck.

I've only had one surgery in my long life (cancer), but I remember how big a deal it all is. My only advice is to trust and to be strong.

I had to spend two weeks in nursing home surgical rehab after my surgery. I thought I didn't want it, but, because of my MS, my doctors knew I did. In retrospect, I realize they were right. The PT and OT I got there was so so useful, and it spared my care-giving husband. If this follow-up support is offered to you, I recommend you take it. (OK, food and privacy will be issues, but ... .)

With the best wishes to you,
Mermaid Susan

[Mamabug]

Wishing you the best. In the distant past, other than having wisdom teeth removed, I've had two surgeries -- ulner nerve, and sinus.
No back surgeries. Hope it goes well.

[Temagami]

Just read an overview of the procedure- hope you are back and chipper in 4-6 weeks. At least you get some time off to start fusing and healing.

[TinaP303]

Hi Kittysmith,
Did you have the ACDF surgery in February? Did you have one level or more done? How did your recovery go? Now that it's been a few months, would you do it again?

I was told last week that I needed the same surgery and frankly I'm a bundle of squinchy nerves. I "need" 3 levels done, and am more than concerned about having a neck that has severely compromised mobility.

Thanks for your input.
Tina