Expert: Dr. Man Tran, Ph.D., D.C., L.Ac. - 7/3/2009

Question
In 2001 I had a C5-C6 through C6-C7 cervical fusion with discectomy. To this day I experience constant pain/pressure in my neck and between my shoulder blades that makes it very difficult to relax or get more than a couple of hours sleep at night without being awoke by it. Originally I was given Norco and Valium for this which worked well but discontinued it years ago for fear of addiction. Over the counter meds have very little if any affect. Is there anything you can think of that I might try? Thank you for your time.

Answer
Dear Matt,

Usually with post surgery procedure, there may be linger pain due to the trauma of the neck and an alteration of the structures in the neck.  

I would suggest for you to visit a chiropractic office and/or an acupuncturist office.  Chiropractor can help with the surrounding muscles which may be spasm due to the change in the contours of your neck.  Acupuncture can definitely manage the pain in the neck without influencing the procedure done to your neck.  Chiropractor may shy away from adjusting your neck due to the surgery you had.

In my opinion, either one will work but in your case, I would lean toward acupuncture more.

Good luck.