Had A Neck Fusion, With Plates And Graph From Hip. Having Degenerative Discs. Suggest The Precautionary Measures To Be Taken?

Posted on Thu, 22 Aug 2013

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Thu, 22 Aug 2013 Answered on

Thu, 12 Sep 2013 Last reviewed on

Question : I just had a neck fusion, with plates and graph from my hip. I have degenerative discs. I have protruding disc from C2- through C-7. This is my second surgery. I asked him about preventative measures, he claims.. I have none. He has told me once I return to work in October , we will wait it out. He expects to see me in the future for more operations. I can't believe this is it? Nothing can be done? I'm only 49.

Answered by Dr. K. Naga Ravi Prasad (26 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
You can prevent further damage to certain extent.

Detailed Answer:
Hi, thanks for writing to XXXXXXX

The general impact after a cervical fusion will be one level above and one level below the site of fusion. As no movement occurs at the site of fusion, compensatory movements occur just below & above the fusion site leading to early degenerative changes.

A few tips that help in improving & maintaining the general health of your spine are as follows -
* Develop a regular fitness routine: Work with your doctor to develop a safe workout plan for you. Try to incorporate resistance training and aerobic and flexibility exercises into your routine.

* Eat healthy, nutritious foods: Base your diet on fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.

* Take breaks throughout the day: This is especially important if you work at a desk all day. Getting up to stretch every 30 minutes gives your back a chance to recover from the strain of sitting for hours.

* Develop good posture: Sitting or standing correctly promotes good health for your cervical spine.

* Get plenty of sleep: Aim for 8 hours a night.

* Stop smoking (If you are a smoker) : Smoking can accelerate the aging process, which is bad news for your spine.

There's no sure way to tell if you will completely avoid developing spondylosis, but leading a healthy lifestyle is one of the best ways to prevent spondylosis.

Hope I have addressed your query. I welcome any more clarifications

Regards

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar

Follow up: Dr. K. Naga Ravi Prasad (6 hours later)

Thank you for your prompt reply,
I work in retail, I work mandatory 10 hour days. I normally end up working 12. My job requires desk work in the morning, then heavy lifting the rest of the day. I am taking care of vendors, putting product on shelves. It is very strenuous. I failed to mention, I have mid and low back pain as well. At night, I have horrible pain in my legs, I cannot sleep. I have noticed that sitting, or crossing my legs causes my feet and toes to turn purple. Perhaps, poor circulation. I was doing very well on Chantax, however my doctor wanted me off it for my surgery. I am single, I need to work, I'm fearful of injuring my back again.

Answered by Dr. K. Naga Ravi Prasad (20 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Have a positive attitude towards your health

Detailed Answer:
Hi, Nice to hear from you.

I can feel your concern regarding your health from your description.

A few precautions to be followed during your job work -
* While at desk work, avoid placing your neck continuously in one position (like stooping down, looking up or sideways)
* While lifting heavy weights from the floor, always bend your knees (don't lift any weight with knees straight as it will exert enormous amount of strain on your back muscles & ligaments)

The nocturnal muscle pains in the legs could be due to muscle fatigue owing to your sternous job. Simple activities like - Drinking plenty of fluids to avoid dehydration, massaging the cramped muscle with your hands or with ice, taking a hot shower or warm bath & Stretching your leg muscles or riding a stationary bicycle for a few minutes before you go to bed may help in resolving your leg pains.

Have a great day

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar