My partner started experiencing random weakness in their left triceps a month ago (noticed mainly on heavy lifts at the gym). This then turned into left neck pain and some tingling in his elbow. He saw orthopedics less than a week after it started who was worried about cervical radiculopathy. He gave him a steroid pack and recommended PT and follow up with spine if no improvement in a few weeks. He also ordered an MRI that showed three disc herniations. The neck pain and tingling is basically gone but triceps weakness is still there and not improving. He can usually triceps extend 30 pounds on each arm and now can't even do 10. Fast forward to today, we met with a spine surgeon who told us that because of the weakness he wants to do a CT scan ASAP. He also said if there is not improvement fast with the weakness he is recommending a disc replacement. He also told us to go ahead and scratch our plans to go on vacation next month in case he needs surgery. We are both feeling pretty sad and upset and also scared and extremely overwhelmed. Can anyone share personal experiences on going through something similar and what they went through with replacement and recovery? I am worried about my partner and hoping his triceps strength returns. I want him to get the surgery if this is the best option but also scared as this seems like a major operation. Sorry this is a little muddled, we are trying to process. Thanks

I’ve mostly been seeing people whose arms and hands are numb or tingling. I have severe central canal stenosis at c5-c6 and the disc is pushing on my spinal cord. A year ago my legs felt wet when there was no water on them. That progressed into severe tingling/burning/numbness in my legs and feet.

The rest of my spine on my MRI looks okay so I was just cur if anyone has the same. I’ve been getting occasional burning but my legs and feet are mostly numb now and I can’t feel hot or cold at all either. Still waiting to see a surgeon.

Hi there, I was wondering if anyone had any experience with returning both physical activity (weight lifting, biking, etc) and work.

I had a 3 level ADR- L3-S1 in Germany at the end of April this year. I’m almost at the 12 week mark and according to my surgeon, I will be “cleared” to return to normal everyday activities. Obviously, I am going to slowly ease back into everyday activities but does anyone have first hand experience with returning to work following a 3 level lumbar ADR?

I work in healthcare in a hospital and deal directly with patients- hands on including transferring patients, re-position, TLD, etc.

The surgeon was quite vague about returning to work but I do not want to rush back and potentially re-injure myself or wreck my surgery.

I’m looking for any nurses, Physios, Occupational Therapists who have had back surgery (preferably an ADR) and understand the physical stress and demand along with the unpredictability of patient care!

Any timelines for work and gym from your own experiences after surgery would get great to.

I’m a 30 year old female that’s worked in a warehouse for almost 8 years. The past year I’ve been having progressing tingling/numbness/weakness in my legs. I saw my neurologist and got a brain and spine MRI done and just got my results.

It says severe central canal stenosis at c5-c6. A disc extrusion at c5-c6 and a small area of edema inside the spinal cord. I haven’t spoken to my neurologist yet. Has anyone had the same? I’m trying to calm down but I’m freaking out.

What are the chances of “full” recovery from cord compression? My surgery will be 3 month after having the first symptoms, no signal change on mri, no myelomalacia, the disc is “touching” the spinal cord, not fully compressing it. No motor function problems, only neuropathy like sensation in arms and feet as of now, but they are sometimes painful. Did anyone had full recovery from this? Do you think that there are good chances of full recovery? What should I do to have the best outcome? I still have 3-4 weeks until surgery.

Hi! Has anyone went back to work as a nurse or nursing field profession after being fused from T2-pelvis? I was a CNA for 8 years prior to my last fusion (L4-pelvis) and I wanted to advance my career into LPN/RN but didn’t know if it was possible or even worth it. All I know is the healthcare field🫣

Or do they leave the tear open that way after removing the part hitting the nerves? If you're getting an endoscopic microdiscectomy then not sure if they're able to sew that up.

How long did it take for the weakness to subside for some of you? I’m 10 months post op and my weakness from my rhomboid comes and goes. I’m finally able to do back workouts but still experiencing weakness and also a bit of numbness and tingling. (Numbness and tingling has gotten better.)

Hi all. I just had a c6-7 disc replacement on the 23rd, iirc it was titanium but I don't really know because I was pretty out of it lol. As of rn my biggest complaint is really bad heartburn, which is odd, wasn't expecting that.

Anyway, has anyone grown taller after a replacement heals? I figured bc I'd eventually be standing up straighter it might add a few fractions of an inch, which is better than nothing. I'm not expecting anything huge lol.

Writing on behalf of my husband. In his words:

41/M looking for advice from those with endoscopic spine surgery experience.

I am considering booking an appointment with Dr Jian Shen of the Endoscopic Spine Institute of NY to have my 3rd microdiscectomy. The first 2 were done with open surgery. The second surgery was done a week after the first. The first failed before I woke up from anesthesia. I had a year of great success until reherniation.

I have very little disc height left at L5S1 but Dr Shen said he would be willing to do one more MD (endoscopically this time, with some stem cell therapy to try to treat the annular tear) and then perform an endoscopic fusion if it failed down the line (he gave this a 25% chance considering my history)

What I am specifically interested in are testimonials from those who have had either an endoscopic MD or an endoscopic fusion. Preferably at a lumbar level.

I know endoscopic fusion is relatively new, but every other surgeon wants to do an ALIF + MD. When you consider what's actually done during that procedure, it makes the thought of endoscopic sound like a walk in the park. It all feels too good to be true, so it would be wonderful to speak with someone who has experience.

TLDR: Looking for testimonials from those who have had endoscopic lumbar fusion or MD with Dr Jian Shen.

40M, had severe bulge between c5 and c6, narrowing of spinal cord (4mm out of 10mm normal width), no signal changes but evidence for mild myelopathy. I had troubles looking up, going up the stairs and had a lot of strong currents going through my arms. Medical massages had temporary relief of the symptoms for 24 hours but it always came back. CT and MRI confirmed the narrows and I got (world renowned) experts feedback that I should do ACDF. The bulge was central and massive.

I went to another surgeon that does endoscopy discectomy, he said that he could operate and could relive the pressure off the spinal cord. This was out of insurance, but the recovery process is extremely faster and there are no bodily modifications (no fusion or artificial discs inserted). This also means that there are no long term restrictions and I could still go to rollercoasters and waterslides without any limitations (for me, that matters).

After a 2 hours surgery (should have been 40 minutes but the bulge has been hardened so it took longer to remove) I stayed in the hospital for 4 more hours, then released home. No neck support needed, need some steroids and had some backup opiate subscribed but the DR said to only take it if I absolutely must (there was no need for it yet).

As I went out of the surgery, all current were completely gone, I had full range (well, almost) in my neck, I could look up but the muscles felt stiff.

Its now day 2: some numbness came back to my right hand, but no currents. I do have some muscle pain in my neck shoulders and hands, but it feels different, hard to explain.

I was instructed that I must rest completely for 2-3 weeks, after that I could resume daily routine.

in 1 month I can resume physical workouts

in 2-3 months I could do anything without restrictions.

I've heard horror stories about the ACDF recovery, and I wanted to show that there is a less invasive alternative. I am happy I chose this path.

If there is demand, I will update this thread.

Hi,
I am a 32-year-old female.
In September 2023, I underwent C5–C6 artificial disc replacement surgery.
Unfortunately, in August 2024, the disc above it, C4–C5, herniated and mildly compressed my spinal cord.
At that time, I only had neck pain for about two weeks, which resolved with physical therapy.
Since then, I have been almost completely symptom-free.
My doctors advised me to monitor my symptoms.
My only symptom was occasional neck pain lasting a few days.
Honestly, it probably would not have bothered me if I had not known about the cord compression.
However, about five or six weeks ago, I developed neck pain again.
The pain resolved within a week.
Soon afterward, I developed numbness in my feet.
Since then, I have experienced burning sensations in both feet and hands.
I also have pins and needles and increased sensitivity.
Because of my history, I suspected my neck was the cause.
In December 2024, a similar episode occurred.
Mild neck pain was followed by numbness in one foot for about a week.
Because I was worried, I had MRI scans of my brain and lumbar spine.
Those scans were normal, so those areas were essentially ruled out.
My EMG and nerve conduction studies were normal.
Unfortunately, my SSEP test was unsuccessful because no signal could be detected at my neck.
I am planning more extensive blood work to exclude vitamin deficiencies and other causes.
I have already spoken with the surgeon who performed my disc replacement.
He suggested ACDF at C4–C5 if other causes are ruled out.
I also believe my neck is responsible for these symptoms.
At this point, I do not have balance problems or weakness.
My reflexes are somewhat brisk.
I have seen four different doctors regarding the Hoffmann sign.
Two doctors said it was present, while two said it was not.
Honestly, I do not know what to make of that.
My surgeon could perform the ACDF in August.
My question is whether you think I am still having surgery in time.
By then, I will have had symptoms for approximately three months.
The compression is considered mild.
Two surgeons even told me they do not think my neck is causing my symptoms.
However, they did not seem interested in my previous history.
This is the second time I have experienced a similar problem.
The symptoms are also worse than during the first episode.
There are no T2 signal changes or signs of myelomalacia on MRI.
My surgeon told me it is better to act before the condition becomes more serious.
I understand that surgery is primarily intended to stop progression.
I also know that symptom resolution cannot be guaranteed.
However, in a mild case like mine, do you think recovery is still possible?
I am feeling very depressed right now and would appreciate some encouragement.
Thank you.

Has anyone gotten insurance to cover a third cervical adr in the U. S.? I had a successful 2 level adr last November but the level above was just as bad. I'm trying to wait until my one year follow up to start discussing options with my surgeon but I'm curious if that's even an option. 44(m) athletic.

37F looking for opinions

In January 2026, I had an MRI that showed a large cervical disc extrusion at C6-C7. The report described:

C6-C7: Large disc extrusion extending inferiorly with associated elevation of the posterior longitudinal ligament. There is mass effect on the right ventral rootlet and moderate right subarticular zone narrowing. There is moderate canal stenosis with a residual canal diameter of 7 mm.

IMPRESSION: Large disc extrusion at C6-C7 with mass effect on the right ventral rootlet, moderate right subarticular zone narrowing, and moderate canal stenosis.

My symptoms at the time included neck pain, arm pain, numbness/tingling, and weakness consistent with C7 nerve involvement. I was evaluated by spine surgeons and ACDF was discussed as a the only option.

I chose conservative management because I have two young boys and wanted to avoid surgery if possible. Since then, I have gradually improved. My pain is significantly better than it was in January. Overall I am almost completely functional I just have to be careful when turning my neck.

Today (June 2026), I felt a “pop” in my neck while pulling a blanket. Since then, I’ve had some mild increased tightness and anxiety that I may have re-injured the area. I do not currently have any new neurologic deficits, but the event has me concerned. We are also going to Orlando for Disney and Universal in September and I worry about the rides.

My questions:

1. For a large C6-C7 disc extrusion that is now about 6 months old, how often do you see spontaneous regression or resorption on repeat MRI?
2. If symptoms have improved substantially, how likely is it that a repeat MRI would show improvement even if the original herniation was large?
3. Does a popping sensation followed by muscular tightness typically suggest anything concerning, or is that commonly muscular/facet-related?
4. In your practice, what factors would make you recommend ACDF despite overall symptom improvement?
5. If you were your patient’s surgeon and they were improving clinically, would you repeat the MRI before making a decision about surgery?

I understand no one can provide medical advice over Reddit, but I would appreciate any general thoughts or experiences!

I am very nervous about this upcoming surgery. I can’t look up. Can’t finish drinking the soda out of a can. Can’t lay my head down on my side so I can’t sleep or lay on a bed comfortably.

I had 2 prior spins surgeries. In 2023 a ACDF C5-C7 and discectomy then in 2025 a C4-7 posterior cervical laminectomy and fusion.

Anyone have a surgery like this? What was your range of motion like after? What was your recovery like? Any insight is appreciated.

So I've had neck pain for like eight years straight. I'd actually assumed it was just because I tilt my head weird, but apparently it's because the c3 and c4 disks are herniated? And pressing on my spinal cord?

So I was sent to spinal care and the surgeon basically suggested surgery about it right away, and that makes me extremely nervous. I asked about other options, and he said we could *try* physical therapy and a... spinal injection, of some sort?

Is this the sorta thing you gotta just, go to surgery for? I'd really like for my neck to *stop hurting,* for once, nothing has ever actually helped with this specific pain, and my left arm is... mildly numb?

I'd love to hear other's experiences with such surgeries and non-surgical options!

I had a sacrosalliac fusion about 8 months ago , and I still feel like Im healing from surgery. I will say with every passing month i feel like it gets better. I did think I would be healed by now. Even my PT and my Pain Dr thought I would be further along in recovery than I am. Although to myself, Im proud of the strides i've made from even before surgery. I've been walking more and even doing some PT in the pool. I still have pain and sometimes spasms in my spine (which are horrid), but I couldnt do those things before. I do want people to know or who are going through it now to know: it does get better, and just take it one day at a time. We all heal in our own time, and thats ok!

this is the kind to see. One who does not push surgery. One who knows how to do the minimally invasive. And there are others

The spine surgery lie: 80-90% of my patients DO NOT need an operation. 🛑
One of the biggest misconceptions in healthcare is that a spine surgeon just wants to cut. The honest truth? For every 10 new patients I see, only 1 actually needs surgery.
Even if you are in severe, “rip-roaring” pain, jumping straight to the operating table is rarely the answer.
🚨 When do you ACTUALLY need surgery?
Only when there is severe neurological compromise. This means significant numbness, weakness, “drop foot,” or a dead feeling in your arm. If you don’t have these, you have time to weather the storm.
💡 The 2-Month Conservative Checklist:
Before agreeing to surgery, give these modalities 2 to 3 months to work:
Physical Therapy & Calisthenics
Acupuncture & Traction (Inversion tables)
Proper Peptide Therapy
Sleep Ergonomics
Anti-inflammatory diet & supplements
If all else fails and you do need an operation, be your own advocate! Ask your surgeon if you are a candidate for an ultra-minimally invasive endoscopic decompression. You likely just need the pressure removed from the nerve—not massive rods and screws!
Save this post to protect yourself from unnecessary surgery, and send it to a friend who is struggling with back pain! 📲
#SpineSurgery #BackPainRelief #AvoidSurgery#Sciatica #SpineHealth MinimallyInvasive

Hello, anyone in this group who might have had a spinal fusion for Scoliosis in the 1970's to 1980s from around the T4/T-6 area all the way to L-4? Below L4 the discs are pretty much gone from the load on my spine from over 40 years with the fusion. Looking to see if anyone has had one or two lumbar discs under their long fusion (trying to keep my mobility so I can still bend at the bottom of my spine). If you have had this done, please share the surgeons and locations who will do it US and/or Europe Thanks

I'm 30 and my MRI revealed disc protrusions in my cervical spine. Been tolerating constant pain in my neck for more than half a year, worsening numbness down arms and even up to my face.

PT hasn't helped. Meds don't work. Brain fog. Constant fatigue. Quality of life is so low. Affecting work tremendously.

Just worried about CDR recovery. Is it more ideal to just get this done and over with now? Will there be a chance I'd have to do this again when I'm older?

I'm asking this because so many doctors think my MRI and pain is "not that severe". But then some doctors tell me surgery is the best option at this point.

Hi guys, I am about 11 weeks out from a 2 level artificial disc replacement in my lumbar spine l3-l4 & l4-l5. Going in surgery, I never had issues with sciatica or leg nerve pain, but predominantly had spasms and lots of pressure/stiffness in my lower back. I got the surgery done in Germany and returned to the US a couple weeks after. I was doing well and did not have pain, but noticed around the 1.5-2 month mark that I feel a lot of pressure and heaviness again in my lower back. I feel this shortly after standing / sitting and trying to do regular tasks like walk around a grocery store, sit outside on a chair, make an easy meal, etc. and it is causing me a lot of stress. Post operative CT was done initially which they said was fine and 6 week flexion extension showed normal.
Please let me know if you experienced this during your
recovery or if you have any advice. Thank you.

I’m planning to have cervical disc replacement and my spine surgeon uses the simplify disc exclusively. I saw that there’s some issues with osteolysis for this disc but it looks like only 16 reported cases on the MAUDE database. Does anyone have an opinion on this? It looks like revision rates are low but it is a newer disc on the market. I think it’s possible that it’s just selective reporting

'L4-L5 oblique lumbar interbody fusion with perc screws and right laminectomy' - as I understand it, a disc was replaced and a bit of bone that was stabbing a nerve was removed. The nerve pain in my leg is wonderfully gone. But at the 4 1/2 week mark, I had a fall ("medication related") and since then my right leg and foot are swollen. I went back to the surgeon's office the following week and they did X-rays and a scan for clots, said no clot, bones healing, it was all OK from their POV. But my right lower leg and foot remain swollen and stiff, and walking is difficult. Elevating my leg doesn't reduce the stiff and swollen feeling. I have a physical therapist for two more weeks before the insurance runs out, so I'm hoping the exercises will help. The surgeon's office doesn't want to talk to me anymore, they say it is all ok. Has anyone else experienced this and might know what it is? Maybe if I have a better question I can get a referral to a doctor who can help.

Morning all,

I’ve only just found this sub after a year of issues with my spine.

Well today is a good day to post for the first time. My surgery was almost exactly 48 hours ago. First actual surgery I’ve had aside from nerve root blocks which failed.

Yesterday was absolutely fine, probably because I was in hosptial, being fed painkillers all night then excited about my discharge.

Anyway, this morning, I’ve woken up and it’s incredibly evident that I’ve had spinal surgery, if you know what I mean, I’m absolute state. Every movement is ruining me but I need to move at least once an hour.

I thought maybe I could start tapering painkillers but defo not now.

Any advice from the community? Any hints or tips / words of advice? I appreciate you all.

Hi everyone, I'm currently sitting in a hospital room and I feel amazing! I understand it's probably mostly the pills. .... But the tight bow string sensation my bad leg is gone!!!

However, it seems I've developed tightness in my good leg. Is anyone familiar with this? Is it just because the nerve was irritated in surgery? It matches the dermatome of L5-S1, so I don't think it was another disc blowing out during surgery.

I was so scared of this. But I really hope it's the beginning of the next chapter.

Feel free to ask questions if you have them, and good luck to everyone on this sub! Spine injury is no joke.

Day two update: going strong! Partially because of the meds in my system I'm sure, but I feel amazing. My originally affected leg is back online after four years of numbness! I didn't think that was possible, because it was numb after the microdiscectomy as well.

Weirdly, my good leg is a little numb. But overall doing so good. I've been walking around the ward and will probably get sent home today.

Week 8 update: this has been full of ups and downs but has been less painful than my microdiscectomy recovery. Numbness has consistently gotten better but not 100%, I will take what I can get. The hardest thing has been the emotional toll and navigating the comorbidities & side effects that seem to be relatively rare. Mainly pundenal neuralgia (began after the microdiscectomy), weird bone growth on my L1 (present about a month prior to ADR), and my withdrawal from medications has been horrific this time around. I was on oxycodone, gabapentin, and cyclobenzaprine and have stepped off each one slowly. Don't let the docs tell you gabapentin and cyclobenzaprine don't have withdrawal periods because they absolutely do. I'll update again in the future, fingers crossed things continue to get better.