An Update on My Burning Neck Pain: CT Results, RFA, and Recovery

If you've been following my ACDF recovery journey, I wanted to share an update on where things stand.

At my one-year follow-up, I talked to my surgeon about the burning pain I'd been experiencing in the back of my neck and left shoulder. The pain mostly happens when I bend my head forward or do activities with my arms out in front of my body, things like cooking, washing dishes, or working at my desk.

Although many of my original symptoms from before surgery have improved, this burning pain and the muscle spasms have continued to affect my daily life.

Because the burning pain and muscle spasms weren't improving, my surgeon ordered a CT scan to see how my fusion was progressing. The scan showed that one level had fused well, while another still appeared to be healing. The good news was that my hardware was stable, and follow-up X-rays didn't show any instability. Since my symptoms were still interfering with everyday activities, my surgeon recommended trying radiofrequency ablation (RFA) in hopes of reducing the pain.

My RFA Experience So Far

It's now been two weeks since my RFA, and I wanted to give an honest update.

I was hoping I'd already be feeling better, but recovery from RFA takes time. Right now, I'm still experiencing a sunburn-like burning sensation on the skin over the treated area, along with some aching. From what I've learned, this can be a normal part of the healing process and may take couple weeks to settle down. 

I've also been using the same cold packs I relied on after my ACDF surgery. They've been just as helpful after RFA for easing the soreness and burning sensation.

I'm trying to be patient and stay positive. I really hope this treatment ends up reducing the burning pain I've been dealing with during everyday activities.

I'll definitely post another update once I know whether it's helping.

Things That Are Still Helping Me

If you've read my previous posts, you already know how much I love my microbead bolster pillows.

I still use them every day.

They fit perfectly under my arms whether I'm sitting in my recliner, relaxing on the couch, working at my desk, or sleeping in bed. They help take pressure off my neck and shoulders. It's amazing how something so simple can make such a difference, especially on days when my muscles are tired or flared up.

If you've had neck surgery and haven't tried them yet, I honestly think they're one of the best purchases I've made.

My New Desk Chair

I recently replaced my desk chair with one that has a high back and built-in headrest, and I wish I had done it sooner.

Having somewhere to rest my head while working has made a noticeable difference, especially when I'm sitting at the computer for longer periods.

The extra neck support helps reduce muscle fatigue, and overall it's much more comfortable than my old office chair.

Recovery Doesn't Always Follow a Timeline

One thing this journey continues to teach me is that healing doesn't always happen according to a calendar.

At one year after surgery:

• My arm numbness and tingling are dramatically better

• My range of motion has improved

• My hardware remains stable

• But I'm still working through persistent burning pain during certain activities

Some days are really encouraging.

Other days remind me that recovery is still a work in progress.

As frustrating as that can be, I'm trying to stay positive and keep moving forward one step at a time.

I'll continue updating my journey including whether the RFA ends up helping because I know reading other people's experiences helped me so much before my surgery.

If you're going through something similar, I hope sharing my story reminds you that you're not alone.

Related Recovery Resources

If you're looking for some of the products that have helped me during my recovery, check out these articles:

• 🧊 Best Ice Packs for Fusion Recovery – The cold packs I've used after both my ACDF surgery and RFA.

• ☁️ Microbead Bolster Pillows – My favorite support pillows for sitting, sleeping, and relaxing.

• 💺 My Favorite Recovery Desk Chair – The chair that has made working at my desk much more comfortable.