Intro To My ACDF Story

I've started this blog to chronicle my experience with ACDF surgery. Later I will post about other things including my crafting.

I've had problems out of my back for many years. My newest Doctor is the first to do anything about my complaints. Dr. Barns ordered X-Ray's. She told me I had arthritis in my neck. The X-Rays also showed narrowing of the spaces between C-5-6, and C-6-7. She made a referral to a Neurosurgeon. Being out of work, and fighting for my Social Security Disability, I could not get an appointment.

I finally got approved. (Do get a lawyer) As soon as I got my Medicare card, my doctor was able to resubmit my referrals. There were many. My Neurosurgeon ordered a full spinal MRI. (Cervical, Thoracic, and Lumbar) Problems were found in my Lumbar and Cervical areas.

My L-5 Disk is herniated. I suspected this from an injury in 2001. Luckily the doctor recommended steroid shots and therapy.

My C3-4 is herniated, but does not need immediate attention.

My C5-6 and C6-7 are the immediate problem This is why I need the surgery.

Writing has always helped me process things. That is what this blog is for. I am making this Blog public, just in case someone out there is about to go through the same thing and is searching for answers.