| Last Updated April 11, 2005 |
My TOS :
I have TOS surgery scheduled for a rib resection and fusion of the c5-6 cervical disc for degenerative disc disease. Has anyone else suffered symptoms of both these illnesses? I was told symptoms are very similar for the cervical disc disease and TOS. Any comments are welcome.
I am currently about 6 weeks post op and although recovery is slow, I am very happy to be able to type this. After a rib resection, removal of fibrous bands that were constricting an artery, and a cervical disc fusion, I have just begun limited exercises for mobility. Still some pain, especially nerve irritation. Doctor says about 6 months post op, I can return to work. I will continue to update soon.
I am now 2 months post-op and am wondering if anyone has experienced what I am: an extreme back pain carrying down the spine, arms and into both hands. It feels like nerve pain and has only occurred since my surgery. I don't know if this is overuse of my arm, or something not related to TOS. Also, what is the average time for using pain meds after surgery? Anyone with advice or information, please email me. Thanks.
Shortly after my last update, I took another patient's advice and began taking the muscle relaxers the doctor had originally prescribed me post surgery. Fortunately, this helped my pain. I still have some inflamation, but it is definitely liveable. I am close to returning to work, and am very thankful to have had the success I have been fortunate to have.
Since my last update, I have had an improvement in spinal pain with the help of muscle relaxers. My doctor had originally prescribed them post surgery, but I discontinued them when I thought I should. I still have flare ups, and still am on the mend. I do feel ready and capable of handling an 8 hours work day. Hurray!! The job search begins!
Dr. Richard Braun, San Diego