Distortion Diaries:
Narrative of My Cervical Spine
Surgery
Dear Visitor,
On December 12, 2002, I had an anterior cervical disc fusion at the C5-C6 level of my spine. After 18 months of puzzling neurological symptoms, multiple emergency room visits, and 6 months of what felt like a constant, painful migraine headache in my right shoulder, I had the surgery. This journal is a description of my personal challenges with conflicting medical recommendations, from episodes of chronic and acute pain, and, ultimately, almost complete relief after the surgery.
I began keeping this journal in June, 2002, when the pain was so intense that sitting in a comfortable executive chair at the word processor or surfing the web was the only way to stay distracted from it. Meds, heat or cold packs helped, too. I did endless research about degenerative disc disease, bone spurs, and surgery.
I decided to post my story because there are few sites that describe the struggle with cervical disc problems over time. Most reports on the discussion boards are from people with questions or who have had bad experiences with surgery, or who are just plain scared and don't know what to do.
This site is, in no way, a recommendation for everyone to have surgery. But I had a good experience and have had relief. So have three friends of mine who had the exact same procedure for the same or similar symptoms.
Courage and Fortitude!
Emma Swings
Photos by Janet Powell at CandidColors.com