iCliniq Logo
HomeAnswersInternal Medicineneck pain

Is it normal to feel pain after cervical fusion?

This Premium Q&A, reviewed and published, features a real conversation between an iCliniq user and a physician.

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

I had cervical spinal fusion on my neck two years ago. Since then, I have been experiencing constant pain, and I also have a hard, movable spot in the same area of the surgery. When it is moved, it sends shocks down my neck into my back and shoulders.

Please help.

Thank you.

Answered by Dr. Usaid Yousuf

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I have gone through your query and understand your concern.

That does not sound good, and it is understandable why this is worrying you. If it has been two years since your cervical spine fusion and you are still in constant pain, along with electric-like shocks when you touch a movable spot at the surgery site, this should not be ignored. That hard spot could be due to scar tissue, a hardware issue, or an irritated or compressed nerve. This needs to be evaluated in person, preferably by the same spine surgeon or a neurologist.

To understand what is going on, you may need investigations such as an MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) of the cervical spine, preferably with contrast, along with a cervical spine X-ray. If the symptoms are worsening or spreading, a nerve conduction study may be required, and an ultrasound of the surgical site can help assess the lump.

This requires a proper clinical examination and imaging to confirm the cause. Please do not massage or press on the lump, as this may aggravate nerve irritation. You may need medications for nerve-related pain or physical therapy, but no treatment should be started without review by a spine specialist.

Avoid self-manipulation of the area. Maintain a neutral neck posture. Avoid jerky movements and heavy lifting. Use a soft cervical pillow and avoid prolonged forward bending. If working on screens, keep them at eye level.

Please share your previous surgery notes or any recent imaging if available, and inform whether the pain is worsening or spreading. If possible, get an MRI and consult a spine or neurology specialist. Further guidance can be provided once more details are available.

I hope I have answered your question.

Let me know if I can assist you further.

Thank you.

Answered by

Dr. Usaid Yousuf

Medically reviewed byiCliniq medical review team

Published At April 4, 2026
Reviewed AtApril 4, 2026

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Dr. Usaid Yousuf

Dr. Usaid Yousuf

General Practitioner

Listen to related tracks in our music library

Ask your health query to a doctor online

*guaranteed answer within 4 hours

Disclaimer: No content published on this website is intended to be a substitute for professional medical diagnosis, advice or treatment by a trained physician. Seek advice from your physician or other qualified healthcare providers with questions you may have regarding your symptoms and medical condition for a complete medical diagnosis. Do not delay or disregard seeking professional medical advice because of something you have read on this website. Read our Editorial Process to know how we create content for health articles and queries.