My acdf didn't work. i'm in more pain then i used to be. what are my options besides living with pain?

2nd opinion: Did your fusion not 'take'? See your ORS if continued pain( esp. if down arm or continued weakness ). May want to consider getting a second opinion from an experienced ORS who specializes in spine.Get examined w/ new radiologic studies( if needed).Most ACDF patients improve markedly after surgery.If you have a failed(unfused level(s) or a new disc'wearing' out then a redo' fusion may be helpful.Gl

S/p Cervical spine: Get another opinion. Perhaps there are other sites giving you your pain , stiffness. Also consider mindfulness meditation. This helps you to accept and better tolerate your condition.

Why did it not work?: You need to figure why. Pseduoarthorsis or non-fusion can be one cause. Having disc problems at another level could be another cause. Surgery not done properly can also be a cause. If you have had all these looked at by your spine surgeon, get a second opinion. However, surgery does not help 100% of the time and you may simply have to live with the condition. Make sure you get several doctors.