Living with chronic neck and arm pain can be debilitating. It can affect your sleep, work, and your overall quality of life. But there’s good news: if you’ve tried various treatments for your pain and are still struggling, a cervical disc replacement procedure may be an option for you.
Dr. Michael Cluck, with Dignity Health Medical Group — Merced, specializes in spinal surgery and minimally invasive cervical disc replacement. This procedure can relieve pain, improve your ability to move, and help you get back to doing the things you love. Dr. Cluck performs this procedure at Dignity Health Mercy Medical Center in Merced. We spoke with Dr. Cluck to get answers to common questions about the procedure below.
Q: What is cervical disc replacement surgery?
Dr. Cluck: The cervical disc surgery is a minimally invasive procedure that replaces a damaged disc in the spine with an artificial disc. This artificial disc is designed to mimic the natural movement and flexibility of your spine. It’s a great alternative to traditional fusion surgery, which can limit neck movement. Cervical disc replacement preserves natural motion, while relieving pain.
Q: Who is a good candidate for cervical disc replacement?
Dr. Cluck: This procedure can benefit people experiencing neck or arm pain caused by a damaged disc in the neck. Numbness, tingling, or burning can also be signs that you may benefit from a cervical disc replacement.
Making a consultation appointment with a spine surgeon can help determine whether or not you qualify for this procedure. You can schedule a meeting with Dr. Cluck by calling (209) 564-3700 and selecting option 2.
Q: What are the benefits of cervical disc replacement?
Dr. Cluck: Cervical disc replacement offers several advantages:
- Maintains motion: Cervical disc replacement preserves natural movement and flexibility.
- Eliminates pain: The procedure relieves pain caused by a damaged disc by taking pressure off the spinal cord and nerve roots.
- Prevents further damage: By preserving motion, cervical disc replacement helps prevent the development of arthritis in adjacent spinal segments, which could cause more problems in the future.
- Quick recovery: This procedure is typically performed on an outpatient basis, with a recovery time of just 3-6 weeks.
Q: Is cervical disc replacement safe?
Dr. Cluck: As with any surgical procedure, there are potential risks associated with cervical disc replacement. However, these risks are low, and the procedure is considered safe and effective.
Q: How can I schedule an appointment to discuss if cervical disc replacement is right for me?
Dr. Cluck: It’s important to discuss your individual situation with an orthopedic surgeon to determine if this procedure is right for you.
You can schedule a consultation with Dr. Cluck by calling (209) 564-3700 and selecting option 2. You may need a referral from your primary care provider for an appointment. Contact your insurance provider to confirm if a referral is required. We’re here to help you find the best solution for your pain and get you back to living an active life.
Conclusion
Living with chronic neck and arm pain can have a significant impact on your life. However, with advancements in medical procedures such as cervical disc replacement, there is hope for relief from pain and a return to normal activities. Consulting with a specialist like Dr. Michael Cluck can help you determine if this procedure is right for you and get you on the path to recovery.
FAQs
Q: Can cervical disc replacement surgery completely eliminate my pain?
Dr. Cluck: While cervical disc replacement can greatly reduce or eliminate pain caused by a damaged disc, individual results may vary. It is important to discuss your expectations and concerns with your surgeon before proceeding with the procedure.
Q: How long does the recovery process take after cervical disc replacement?
Dr. Cluck: Recovery time after cervical disc replacement is typically 3-6 weeks. Most patients are able to resume normal activities and experience pain relief during this time. Physical therapy may be recommended to aid in the recovery process.
Q: Are there any restrictions on movement following cervical disc replacement?
Dr. Cluck: While cervical disc replacement aims to preserve natural motion and flexibility, there may be some restrictions on certain activities during the initial recovery period. Your surgeon will provide guidance on post-operative care and restrictions to ensure successful healing.
Q: What are the potential risks of cervical disc replacement surgery?
Dr. Cluck: Like any surgical procedure, there are risks associated with cervical disc replacement, including infection, nerve damage, or complications with the artificial disc. However, these risks are relatively low, and your surgeon will take precautions to minimize them during the procedure.
If you have further questions or would like to schedule a consultation with Dr. Cluck, please call (209) 564-3700 and select option 2. Take the first step towards a pain-free life and improved mobility by exploring cervical disc replacement as a treatment option.
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