Most people will never need surgery for osteoarthritis, but if you have severe joint damage, extreme pain that isn’t helped by other treatments, or very limited motion as a result of the condition, osteoarthritis surgery may be necessary.
Surgery for osteoarthritis can provide several benefits, including the following:
Improved movement: If the constant wearing away of cartilage makes it difficult for you to move, making it difficult to you to get around and stay independent, replacing the damaged joint with a synthetic one can allow you to continue activities that you enjoy.
Pain relief: If osteoarthritis causes severe, constant pain that isn’t relieved by treatments such as medications, exercise or physical therapy, surgically replacing the painful joint or removing loose growths that are causing pain, for example, can relieve pain.
Improved joint alignment: In some cases, osteoarthritis can cause the joint to become maligned so that it no longer functions as it should and looks unusual. In the knees, surgery can correct or improve this misalignment. But appearance should not be the main reason for having surgery for osteoarthritis; improved appearance should be considered a bonus after osteoarthritis surgery improves movement and relieves pain.
Surgery for Osteoarthritis
Will I need surgery for osteoarthritis?
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LARA
17 Aug 2010, 15:05
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| I HAVE HAD OSTEOARTHRITIS FOR YEARS. MY KNEES ACHE, I HAVE NOT STOOD UP TO WALK FOR 3 YEARS. IS THERE ANY HELP OUT THERE? |
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Patsy Sherlock
14 Jul 2010, 11:02
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| I have osteoarthritis in my feet and a large osteophyte on my right foot at the arch area. Am about to have steroid injections linked to xrays. Has anyone already had this done and was it successful?. Also has anyone had surgery to remove an osteophyte in this area?. The pain is constant. |
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Kristin
08 Jul 2010, 03:10
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| I have had chronic lower back and right shoulder pain for years. Was
finally diagnosed by a chiropractor(MDs only told me to take
anti-inflammatories)with follow-up diagnostic MRIs. I have
spondylolisthesis in L4-L5 and C6-C7, degenerative disk disease and lots of
arthritic changes. Shoulder pain is tendonitis with probable OA (and both
elbows). I recently had physical therapy which was more for the educational value. I devised a home care routine that helps, using the PT exercises I was given as well as yoga postures I learned in my weekly class. In addition, I walk 1-2 miles daily. I was advised not to stand or sit for long periods and not to bend or lift heavy objects. As long as I do my routine and walk every day, and am careful with my body mechanics, I have been able to avoid the extreme pain I'd experienced in the past. I also added glucosamine chondroitin and 200 mg ibuprofen to my other supplements twice daily. I use ice if I've overextended myself (gardening, usually) and use heat regularly. I also have a TENS unit which is helpful for flare-ups. In addition, I have Hashimoto's and sleep apnea. I'm 35 pounds overweight and working to lose the extra pounds. My knees aren't affected by OA (yet). It does seem to be progressing, and my rheumatologist thinks it is probably a hereditary issue. |
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VINCENT
15 May 2010, 03:11
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| Dear Doctor, I am 50 years old and have terible pain in both knees please let me know what medicine I have to take. thanks waiting for your prompt response. |
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Patti
05 May 2010, 11:02
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| To Sherry, and others... I had an accident in Dec. of 1979, a C-5 fusion the following May. I've had two arthoscopic surgeries (on both knees) OA now in neck, hands, knees, and developing in my lower back. I work in a library, so had to do a lot of research to find something to help manage pain (not big on pain meds)... but willing to try anything. I've done the injections in the neck, acupuncture, even magnets. I find that my best defense, is truly a daily management program. This consists of mostly keeping a positive attitude and maintaining a sense of humor. These things help increase our seratonin and endorphin levels. Think about this.... endorphins are 10 times stronger than morphine, and our bodies prodice it. How cool is that? I keep moving as much as possible. Not to hurt further, but to maintain flexibility and keep muscles as relaxed and strong as possible. I also am a big advocate to staying spiritually grounded. Meditation, prayer, learning to separate mind from body and controling breathing is very helpful. I have many people who have chronic pain issues come to me to ask how I do it... There are my tips listed above, but more to it, of course. Trying to keep from being depressed is also key, as this also lowers your seratonin (sense of wellbeing chemical), which causes pain to increase. I use heat, ice, massage, sometimes muscle relaxers and sometimes tramadol, if needed. But you need to experiment, like I did, don't rely on the doctors, they can only do so much. We are all unique, and doctors have a hard time with uniqueness... they deal with physical, not necessarily the mind/body connection. Good luck, everyone - and remember: Never give up, Never surrender! onward and upward, Patti |
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Ken Snyder
25 Apr 2010, 04:44
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| I have been diagnosed with OA in my right hip. The doctor wants to replace hip right away. Although I have some discomfort I can pretty much get around ok. I do stretching exercises recommended by my therapist and it seems to help. I only have some moderate pain after being inactive for long periods. Will delaying having the hip replaced be detrimental? I know I will have to have the replacement but want to know how long is it safe to wait. |
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Samuel Williams
10 Apr 2010, 19:59
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| Need more Info studies etc. |
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ella
09 Apr 2010, 08:59
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| I am in such pain in my back. I have had surgery the L5,4,3. I now have very odd feelings i my legs from the knees to my toes-it feels like I am walking on rocks- I would like some one to contact me and let me know what I need to do, The Drs don't to seem to what todo. When I walk I do not ache as nuch but if I lie down or sit I am in pain. Thanks wrangledEllie |
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pamela
06 Apr 2010, 23:28
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| i have osteo in my feet, ankles, knees, hips, and shoulders. in constant pain. my worst problem though is in my ankles. the osteo has caused a deformity so that my right foot points off to the right about 45 degrees. i also have diabetic neuropathy in both feet, worse i right foot. i would love to have surgery to correct this. |
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nepthys
06 Apr 2010, 22:05
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| Thank you Jeanne M for the encouraging words. I'm scheduling surg for june and I've been very afraid. Never had any surg before. Looking to kick the meds. So many pills. Wish me luck! |
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Wise Village Woman
06 Apr 2010, 19:01
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| I have osteo....in all my fingers. My fore finger will need a joint
replacement, because it is almost useless. For discomfort and pain, I would
recommend Joint Health Complex with 1,500 mg of glucosamine and clinically
proven cat's claw. Also, Joint & Muscle Pain Cream. It is a topical
arthritis Pain Relief that Works in a Hurry. No synthetics or chemical of
any kind, safe and scientifically proven. It releives the pain and slows
down the arthritis. You can find this product online at my website:
carmody.myshaklee.com. |
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Sherry C
06 Apr 2010, 17:49
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| I have terrible pain in both knees,a few fingers, and my neck.Had x-rays 1 year ago that showed OA. My neurologist sent me to pain management,had a long series of injections in my neck, pain returned.Now pain Dr.said he cannot do more to help.Also suffer from horrific migraines. Recent visit to rheumotoligist. He blew me off saying I had fibromyalgia. Also had surgery in September for OA in right big toe.DPM did the surgery and botched it up. Had it redone by ortho.Cast and air boot both times for 10 weeks. Put a lot of extra pain in right knee. I am miserable!Seeing family Dr. next week for advice and will beg for more x-rays of knees and c-spine. Twin sister had surgery last year for same c-spine problem with a bad disc. She had a small rod put in to stabilize neck, now is pain free! I will not give up. My Mother and both sisters have already had knee and hip replacements. Help! |
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joan diedrich
06 Apr 2010, 14:17
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| both knees hurt |
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Jill Jennings
06 Apr 2010, 14:16
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| I am 61 years old. I have already had 15 surgeries, NINE of them
orthopedic.I was run over by a car at 18 months. In my teens I had 2 knee
operations on each knee. Took out all cartilege and patellas. They did what
the could in the 19602 but they aren't lined up right, so I have problems.
C5 and C6 discs are all gone. I have pain in my neck all the time. Pain
and numbness shooting down both arms. Hands fall asleep at night. I have
had 4 soperations on my toes ( synovitis and arthritis)New toes continue to
get twisted. Because of my knees, my hips were not in alignment. After 25 years of sciatica up and down my left leg, I learned that the entire left hip is shot, bone on bone. NO one was able to help me those 25 years. I was told it was fibromyalgia!! Just because they couldnt see the damage YET on the xrays. Same thing with my neck. Said it looked fine until it was 2 herniated discs.2 Torn rotator cuffs, left elbow removed from a wreck, metal plate in left wrist, screws in both knees, chronic tendonitis right elbow. I hurt from head to toe alal the time and find that these things HELP somewhat: 75 mg Voltaren ( a miracle )2 a day. Take prilosec ahead of time to save your stomach.My hip is so bad that it can't touch the pain,especially at night,but it helps. Also, The Alexander Technique taught me better body mechanics and got rid of the sciatica after 25 years. Check it out. I find most drs. can't believe I am able to move, comment on how much pain I must have all all the time,and then DO NOTHING. They are in love with physical therapy, which usually makes me worse. Cortisone shots have quit working. I finaly found an old man, the doctor who started my ortho clinc. He understands what my life is like. Find the oldest dr you can. Younger one still want to do invasive things. They just don't get it. 30 days of pain pills and come back when you want surgery is what most of them say. Right now I need a hop replacement but the rule is to SEND YOU HOME THE NEXT MORnING. I will have to pay out of pocket for the nursing I need. |
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joan diedrich
06 Apr 2010, 14:14
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| i have pain in both knees. |
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Susie
06 Apr 2010, 13:44
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| To Sandy s, I'm 47 and I had spondylolisthesis due to degenerativedisc disease. I had spinal fusion surgery of 2 discs (L3-L5) with the placement of rods and screws in May 2008. I then had the rods and screws removed after the fusion was complete in March 2009. And I'm doing great with the relief of back pain. In fact, I'm actually back to running! I know everyone is different and some people have a difficult recovery or no relief with spinal fusion, but I wanted you to know that there are definitely success stories out there. Granted, I was in shape prior to the surgery, and I'll admit the post-op PT was tough, but it was worth it for me. |
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Jeanne Matyas
06 Apr 2010, 13:01
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| I recently had a right hip replacement Nothing to it-I made the mistake of waiting too long. I had right groin pain down right inside thigh and could not stand the pain. Hyrocodone in quite high doses did not help-It takes a lot of work to recover but it is certainly worth it. You need a good therapist with a pool. I also stayed in a rehab center for 4 weeks. That worked very well. don't be afraid of hip replacment. The only thing I regret was not storing my own blood and/or my families. I required two pints and wished I had done as was suggested by Dr. before surgery. |
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Marilyn
06 Apr 2010, 12:48
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| Norma & Rosalie- I am unable to use nsaids after using them as per my doctor for 25+ years-kidney damage. Unable to use new meds due to the fact that I had osteomylitis in my right patella & tibia. My hands are in constant pain & my dr. is reluctant to prescribe anything other than darvocet which does help get through the day, but nights are awful. I take Lyrica, on anti-depressants also, but the most relief is an ice pack & pray that something comes along to help. I had to quit my job and sitting at home is not my style-don't trust myself to venture out too far due to my "afflictions" Best of luck to you both. |
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sandy s.
06 Apr 2010, 12:02
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| I am 57, have asthma, hashimoto's, fibromyalgia, restless legs,
depression/anxiety, spondylolisthesis, oa, and a frozen rt. shoulder. Rt.
hip was replaced 2/08 and am pushing toward needing left hip and both knee
replacements. For six yrs I was hooked on hydrocodone but weaned myself
off as it wasn't helping anyway. Now I find most relief with plain old
aspirin and biofreeze. Back pain is getting worse so am interested in
hearing about anyone with spondylolisthesis and what is in store in the
future. thanks. |
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Mary
06 Apr 2010, 11:50
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| I have arthritis in back and spinal stenosis, degenerative discs and bad
knees which I'm holding off having replaced. I can't stand or walk very
long because of the pain I get down into the heels and ankles of my feet.
Ibuprofen helps take some of the pain, but causes havoc in my stomach. Does
anyone else have this problem and any solutions? Thanks, Mary |
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Darryl
06 Apr 2010, 11:10
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| I have had Osteoarthritis for 20 years, or so, and have been on a steady
regimen of 75mg of Diclofenac twice daily. I take 500mg of Hydrocodone for
pain, but that's if it is true discomfort. Thise 2 seem to help a lot. I must say that my OA is really not as serious as the writers have stated. My main problem is Spin Stenosis. That is a severe back problem. I have lost 1 1/2 inches in the past couple of years years because the vertebrae in the back that are shrinking. That is not a medical term! Pain pills help.BUT TO ALL OF YOU, I RECOMMEND SWIMMING AS MUCH AS POSSIBLE. YOU WILL BE PAIN FREE IN A POOL. |
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THEKKE KURUNDIL DAMODARAN
06 Apr 2010, 10:31
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| I have been suffering from Osteo Arthritis (OA) since 2008 in the knee of
both leg angles, Though I had taken DYCERIN tablets for more than 3 months
I did not get any relief. After that I started taking Glucosamine tablets
of Schiff. Can any one suggest me whether any other medication will help me to have complete relief. My email id is tkd1749@hotmail.com Is there any Organisation which offer free advice and medicine for OA in the world and if so I request that Organisation to help me. |
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Norma
06 Apr 2010, 10:19
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| My doctor tells me I have mild to moderate arthritis in my hip. I have osteoarthritis in many other joints. He says to ride a bike at the rec center to strengthen the muscles in the hip. I can't take anti inflamatories because I have chronic kidney disease. What has anyone done to improve function and level of pain in the hip, other than anti inflamatories? |
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Pam T
16 Mar 2010, 12:32
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| i have oa in knees ankles and feet. my cartiliage is shot. my doctors want me to have therapy. i am in so much pain. i want them to just replace the joints so i can have my life back. am i wrong to rush to surgery? |
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Nathan Enyart
08 Mar 2010, 04:45
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| Kelley Lovesy, I have the so called Pain Clinic treatments it is a joke. I had L-5 S-1 messed up ended up with surgery and a bone fusion to this day it is messed up. If you have to have surgery find out from people about the Dr. performing the surgery like I should have done. |
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Gloria A Smith
23 Feb 2010, 07:19
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| Wow I thought I was alone in this thing, I have Osteo, Spinal Degenerative disease and Fibromyalgia. Just got done with sugery on my Left thumb which is getting better. They tell me that surgery wouldn't be good for my back since the Osteo is everywhere and T12-L4 are bulging L5 herniated last year. Taking Lyria and Tramadol now have Gastro problems. I do massage, water therapy, Chiro and acupucture all seem to help. Can't walk far or sit long I hope at some point research finds more of a cure, I work in genetics and we know that is a big facture since my parents and G-parents had this. Also try some mediatation it does help if you can rise above the pain. Blessed Be |
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Gloria A Smith
23 Feb 2010, 07:07
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| To Terri I just had surgery to correct the problem with my Left thumb so far so good. I had lost total movement and now finally no pain and movement is slowly coming back. Find a good hand surgeon and this surgery is 98% affective.I had done everything and this has been my final solution. |
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Cris Cathey
02 Feb 2010, 21:01
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| To all of you that have written about your cervical neck problems. I too,had no disc space at C5-6. You might want to contact www.StenumHospital in Germany. There they do total disc replacement of the cervical and lumbar regions. I had a three disc replacement in 2005 and have no pain at all and full range of motion of my neck. It was the best thing for me to do. You can read my story in the Cervical section of success stories. Good luck to all of you. Germany does the best disc replacements as they have been doing them since the 80's and it is cheaper to go there then to try and have surgery in the states. That is only my opinion. |
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Terri
02 Feb 2010, 19:06
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| I am 51 and have arthritis in my lower thumb joints and starting to feel pain in my shoulders. I have very limited use of my thumbs. Aleve helps but just for awhile. I can't imagine having this pain in my shoulders, or anywhere else for that matter. After reading the previous posts, I should count my blessings. I hope you all find relief... |
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kelly lovesy
23 Jan 2010, 08:55
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| passed injury 12 years ago broke c5 and c6 i have been in extreme constant pain since July 2009. Hospital advised of a spinal fusion now have changed their mind and I have to go to a pain clinic..Does anyone know or had treatment that is actually succcessfull????? |
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Rosalie
04 Dec 2009, 08:57
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| Only 58 and my hands feel like 100. I have OA in all of my fingers, and am
in constant pain. Yes, pain killers help, but I was recently told there is
no prevention, only pain killers. Does anyone have this and feel like they
do something to help the OA from getting worse? Thanks. |
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Glenda G
01 Dec 2009, 10:43
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| I have had diagnois of OA for about 15 years. I have had pain in right shoulder, hips and lower back. Approximately a year ago I had to stop walking for exercise because lower back "popped" and became very painful. About 8 months ago it started hurting to stand. I had 2 MRI's and found degeneration of L5-S1 with 10cm synovial cyst inside vertebral canal in this area. On 19/18/09 I had surgery to remove cyst and fusion of L5-S1 with steel pin. My back is much better, but my hip worse. Had xray right hip and found bone on bone and subchondral sclerosis note. I am on Lortab and dr suggested water therapy. He said I needed hip replacement and to call when I was ready. When would it be considered time for hip replacement? |
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Larry crist
18 Oct 2009, 09:05
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| Had a MRI done on the left side of my hip and complained about my left knee as well. Well my first MRI of the hip area shows a lot of bone spurs, 1cm cysts and multiple cyst left side and the right isde hip is not as bad but getting there. My Ortho Dr. still was not convince so I had an EMG done it shows my lumbar spinal area. Another MRI with5 other MRI and a Nuclear scan. Well I just hjad surgery from the L3-4, L4-5, L5-S1 All arhritic plus this dtr found more Arthritis and a nerniated disc and a bulging disc. Now back to my left hip still grinds and pops just like my left knee guess what Im 56 years old and told Im in there grey area to have surgery. Sorry This is my life my body the cortisone shots dont work or any orther shots or pain relievers. I like to know where my patients rights are. At least my Neuro surgeon finally gave a couple of Ortho dr. to go to to geta second opinion and oh yes Im pushing for surgery its my right.The left knee is getting worse than my left hip so i No there is something really wrong. |
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Annie
06 Oct 2009, 16:32
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| yes! I am a suffer of osteoarthritis too. I have it so bad in my knees and
hips. I am like an old person getting up form my chair. I can't sit for
long periods of timnor stand for long periods either. What to do? At
night I have difficulty sleeping on my shoulders. I wake up in a lot of
pain. And I turn on my back for short periods, don't like it cause I dream
on my back. It is so upsetting that you can sleep on your side. I manage.
i have started a work out regiment at the gym. Helping myself strengthen
my muscles around the deteriating areas. I also, have an inverter that I
use to turn upside down to relieve the pressure on my joints. For you
arthritis suffers, this is a great investment. It aligns, keep pressure
off joints and aligns your organs and your verterbre and balances your
spinal cord. It only $400 dollars, it worth every penny. I am trying very hard to change my diet. It's challenging, but i have to do it. I crave chocolates like crazy. You have to have a plan, a menu of things you need to eat healthier. I've pretty much done everything. Still have a ways to go. |
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Melody Brunty
15 Sep 2009, 11:39
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| I have lupus SLE, Sjogren's, and arthritis. I get horrendous migraine
headaches and cervical neck pain. I have spinal stenosis and some bony
growth going into my spinal canal as well as degenerative disease in my
c-spine. I'm 36 & at home. The neck pain is so severe, coupled with muscle
pain &tight, painful neck muscles.I get muscle pain in my back, too, knots
& spasms. I get P.T. & also have had numerous trigger point injections. My
rheumy ruled out fibromyalgia. I too, have been fighting with Social security for like 3 years.I can no longer do all that I used. So frustrating, tiring, and the pain is terrible. It seems like others, too, experience migraines/headaches with the cerival pain. It's good to know you are not alone. God Bless you all! |
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Stacey
01 Sep 2009, 15:28
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| Betty Forehand- I am a 42 year old woman with C-7 almost gone, C-6 bulging and C-5 wearing; not to mention the 14 (yes 14) bone spurs...I am a full time middle school teacher with two kids. I can't tell you how the pain is ruining my otherwise perfect life..(Great kids and hubby) ... A few years back I had CARPAL TUNNEL surgery and it ended the numbness in my hands and fingers...I would try this VERY easy surgery first. I am holding off as long as I can on the replacement surgery as it has yet to be perfected. I use TONS of pain killers.... I also am having lower lumbar disc degeneration...It has been quite a journey for me. I just try and concentrate on the NOW and the little joys a bit more.. Stacey Manhattan Beach, CA |
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Betty Forehand
22 Aug 2009, 18:13
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| I have been diognoised with cervical spinial sternosis. After having two nuerosurgeons to veiw my MRI, I have been advised that surgery is necessary. I spoke to my rhumatologist to get his opinion, and he is totally aganist the surgery. He feels it is unnecessary, because I do not have any pain, just numbness and tingling in the fingers and hand. I would appreciate some advice. |
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Ed Dennison
23 Jul 2009, 12:45
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| I too have been told I have Cervical Ostearthritis along with lumbar O. Is
there anything short of surgery that can truly help? I have bulging discs,
disc degeneration, bone spurs that are contributing to stenosis in my neck
and lower back that cause pain and numbness in extremeties. I have tried
pain pills(vicoprofin, tramadol) and therapy(made my pain worse). I feel
best when i am in a pool, but as soon as I get out the pain is back. It gets so bad that at times I have difficulty taking a deep breath. I can't sit at a desk but I can't stand up for very long. I have been fighting the system(social {in}security) for three years. Can anybody those of us with this problem? |
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James Pead
25 Jun 2009, 19:43
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| I have arthritis on the right hip and it causes me severe pain and discomfort and I don't know what to do next. Or when should I go through joint replacement surgery. This affect all aspects of my life. Can some one tell me when I need to do the surgury? |
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sonny
28 May 2009, 14:33
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| very simple and effective exercise for neck pain .trust me it really helps.
stand in front of a wall , as close as possible so your chin[facing upwards] touches the wall. Now chin facing upwards slowly raise your both hands in a circular motion . do this sets of to reps every day .....IT REALLY TAKES THE PAIN AWAY .GIVE IT A TRY |
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cindy
18 May 2009, 12:18
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| Neck pain and physical therapy since Oct. 2007. I also started going to exercise classes and walking just to keep my body moving. Helps to have less weight to carry around too. Finally some improvement this spring of 2009. I felt the best when I visited my daughter in the dry desert of the southwest U.S. I take Celebrex daily, it may help some. I still may need surgery C-5 and C-6 before I get too old, I am 61. |
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Donna
07 May 2009, 10:41
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| I am 41 years old. I had spinal fusion with rods done in August, 1981.
Since then my lower back and hip pain has been getting worse to the point
where it is uncomfortable to sit or drive at times. I finally went to see a
spine surgeon on Tuesday. I was diagnosed with osteoarthritis, as well as
spinal spurs. My doctor said that I do need surgery. But, in the meantime I
have to undergo physical therapy and see a rheumatologist. I may be looking
at injections.. that scares me :o\ |
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ness c
26 Apr 2009, 11:05
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| I have suffered with cerical osteoarthritis, I have been back and forth
pain clinic. Been put on tramodol , not helping , apart from causing me, to
want to sleep more! I also have oesto- arthritis in both knees and
oestoporisis, I am over weight and waiting to see the surgeon to have
bariatric sugery to help get the wieght off as I know this is not helping .
At times my DR has not been any support I know being about 7-8 st over
wieght has not helped , but I do know I had oestoarthritis before I put the
wieght on ! |
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Candy
20 Apr 2009, 20:06
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I was just diagnosed with osteorthritis of the spin. I'm only 29 and have 3 kids. My neck pain is unbearable and my hands, legs and feet arms and back. Now i cant walk as good and headaches are so bab. My DR. put me on lortab.The pain went away but now it's back. I'm going to a specialist. I just wanted my life back. I feel your pain!!!! |
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Bernadette Norton
07 Apr 2009, 23:17
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| Last year I suffered so terribly with cervical pain that I developped Panic and anxiety attacks for lack of sleep this whent on for 2 months after trying many different drugs to no avail. Finally went to a pain clinic and had a specialist inject me in the neck with an epideral of steroid to the spinal cord, three days later the pain was gone, I started sleeping and got well, it has been one year, I am still free of pain. To think that I was left to suffer for so long to the point were I was almost committed to a phyciatric ward makes me very angry. no one understood how much pain I was in, or did not take me seriously. |
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Tammy
07 Apr 2009, 19:46
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| Hi Marie, Nancy, and Dawn- I recently have also been diognoised with cervical o. I went to physical therapy for a month with some relief, but, when therapy was stopped I was right back to square one. I felt like I was spending a lot of money for nothing. I so agree with you Dawn/Nancy! I feel like my family doctor sent me for an MRI, told me I had cervical o, sent me to physical therapy, but never really explained anything to me. I have decided to go see a specialist. I feel I need more information. Thank you Marie for the info and websites!!! |
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Marie
06 Apr 2009, 16:40
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| Finding information about cervical arthritis takes a lot of searching and
gleaning information from other respected sites. Also getting a more specific diagnosis - was it based on exam, X-rays, MRI, CT scan?? Cervical arthritis is a catch-all phrase. As for myself, I had a single level C5-6 ACDF, then 2 years later had C3-5 done. Never had neck pain, just arm pain. But this past Fall, I began having actual neck pain. I had access to a doc that does acupuncture and in 3 sessions he was able to reduce the muscle spasm which were causing 50% of the pain. I finally went to an ortho spine doc, he took X-rays, and I now have significant osteoarthritis at the C1-2 level! Not much to do except 'comfort measures'...tried Tylenol but no help so went back to Advil. My PCP started me on Mobic but I saw no difference in 3 weeks. All the lab work at this time is negative for RA. I'm waiting for a referral to a Rheumotolgist as my hands have gotten much worse. Check out Spineuniverse.com and spine-health.com for further information. |
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Nancy V
05 Apr 2009, 07:30
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| Hi Dawn, I was just diagnosed this past week with the same thing. My doctor is sending me to physical therapy and said to use Ibuprofen. I had been getting terrible headaches and the pain in my neck is unbearable most of the time. I will let you know how physical therapy goes once I finally start. |
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Dawn T
24 Mar 2009, 23:46
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| Why is it that no one talks about cervical osteoarthritis? I have this in
my neck and the pain is so bad everything I trie does not work to stop the
pain. Please tell me what to do to get better. Thank you. |
