On October 13th, I had a posterior cervical foraminotomy. It was at four levels. I am currently taking a muscle relaxer and Tylenol extra strength. I have been pretty good at not being too active or lifting anything over five pounds.

My question for anyone who has had a similar operation: how common is neck and shoulder pain after the operation? Also, what is a realistic time frame for the pain to lessen and go away? I do realize this will vary from person to person, but would welcome anyone’s experience with this.

The reason I got the operation was to alleviate shoulder pain. Now, three weeks after surgery, my shoulder pain is a lot worse than before the surgery. I am trying to keep a positive optimistic perspective and assume the shoulder and neck pain is a result of the surgery? Yes, my doctor did warn me that my type of operation was going “to be very painful”. So far, he hasn’t made a liar out of himself.