Cervical Fusions: Why Do So Many Patients Still Have Chronic Pain?

Cervical fusion surgery is meant to relieve neck pain by stabilizing the spine and reducing nerve pressure. While many patients improve, studies show that 15% to 40% of patients continue to experience chronic pain after surgery.

So why does this happen?

One major reason is incomplete nerve decompression. If the surgery doesn’t fully relieve pressure on the nerves, pain can persist. Scar tissue can also form around the nerves, causing irritation and discomfort.

Another issue is adjacent segment degeneration. When two vertebrae are fused, the surrounding levels take on extra stress. Over time, this can cause the neighboring discs and joints to wear down, leading to new sources of pain.

Changes in spinal mechanics after fusion can also affect the surrounding muscles, like the trapezius, leading to stiffness, muscle tightness, and chronic discomfort.

This is why it’s so important to get multiple opinions before deciding on surgery. Once a fusion is done, it can’t be reversed. Exploring all treatment options—like physical therapy, nerve blocks, or minimally invasive procedures—can help delay or even avoid major surgery.

One effective and reversible option for some patients is spinal cord stimulation (SCS). This implantable device modifies pain signals before they reach the brain, providing long-term relief without altering the spine permanently. Unlike fusion, SCS can be removed or adjusted if needed, making it a safer, flexible alternative.

Cervical fusion can be beneficial in the right cases, but it’s not a guaranteed fix for chronic pain. Taking the time to explore all options, including reversible therapies, can lead to better, long-term pain relief.