RuthP.
I've had a C56,C67 fusion with a donor bone graft. This was done in May 1997. I wore my collar for about five weeks, but started with severe frequent migraines so was taken out of the collar. I have had no further pain in my neck or shoulder, but four years later continue to be plagued with migraines. Am under care of a neurologist and getting meds for the headaches. I, however, had developed severe sciatica in my L45 disc about five months after the neck surgery. I ended up with two lumbar partial discectomies. And now have been out on full disability since October 1998. I go to a chronic pain doc, who has injected the lower back area several times with a anaesthetic/steroid which finally shrunk up the disc and scar tissue, so that I no longer have sciatic pain. I probably should have done that to begin with rather than having the two lower back surgeries. Has anyone had a similar experience with ongoing back problems. This was all subsequent to a car accident. Thanks.