JenLynnArt

The day after my son graduated high school, I had my 11th surgery and second cervical fusion due to the end stage arthritis in my neck; another Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion (ACDF), this time at levels C3–4. The first cervical surgery done in 2020, was at levels C4-5. Over the years, my neck has auto-fused itself at C0-C1 and at C2-3. Now, I am fused in four cervical vertebrae out of the seven; resulting in extensive limitation. The severe degeneration, spinal and foraminal stenosis and osteophytes have caused almost constant pain, muscle tension and nerve damage. The purpose of this surgery was to end the pain by limiting the motion. However, at least for me, the muscle tension is unending and extremely frustrating!

My neck, shoulder and upper back muscles constantly feel like a taught rope and when overused, they tense up immediately and can send my nerves firing. Anything from driving, pushing grocery carts, lifting, pulling, vacuuming, etc. can set them into motion. The Gabapentin medication helps with the nerve pain but it’s another drug that causes drowsiness. Overtime my body has gotten used to it along with the other several medications that cause drowsiness. It’s a wonder I’m awake at all & it’s NO wonder that I need A LOT of extra sleep!!!