Amy
Procedure: ACDF Spine Surgery
What was your initial medical issue?
My left arm was completely numb and I had a headache for over a year.
What did this issue prevent you doing?
Everything! At times the headache was very debilitating. They made me do physical therapy, spinal manipulation, and a cortisone injection. Nothing helped!
What made you decide to do something about your problem?
After the cortisone injection did not work, I told Nora at Midwest Spine & Brain Institute that I was done with these things and we needed to fix the problem, and not band aid it anymore. She wanted to try more manipulations, therapy, and another injection. I simply said, “NO”. She then wrote a referral to see Dr. Sinicropi.
Why did you choose Dr. Sinicropi?
I was referred to him. However, I did my research and he is a very well-known surgeon with a great history. As I was preparing for this surgery, I used his website to help me understand what I was going to go through and what the recovery time and healing would be like. I really needed to know what was going to happen to me so I could plan accordingly.
What treatment/procedure did you have done?
ACDF Surgery – C5, C6 & C7.
How did you feel after treatment?
AMAZING! When I woke up in the recovery room I could feel my entire left arm right away. Aside from being groggy from surgery, I did not have a headache for the first time in over a year. At times the headaches were so bad my vision would be blurry. All of these symptoms are gone. I feel terrific!
What advice would you give other patients in a similar situation to you?
Speak up for yourself. Go through the motions that they want you to, but when you have had enough, say something. I wish I would have said something sooner. Recovery is tough, but so worth it. This was the best decision I could have made for myself. The care that I was given was extraordinary. I was in good hands though the whole process! Thank you for giving me my life back!
