Hi, I was wondering what could cause a tight, semi acute pain/ tightness in what seems to be my sternum, also can be more noticeable when laying on either side, I am 4 months post acdf due to a vertebrae break at c7 due to a pool diving accident? Thank you for The help!
Hello, It looks that you are recovering from a Major surgery of anterior cervical disc fusion (ACD). The good thing behind your concern is that most probably this pain is not associated with your surgery. Most of the general problems after ACD surgery resolve itself. The present pain may be due to some soft tissue edema or ligament sprain which may occurred during injury. In my routine OLD, I do treat such cases with mild anti-inflammatory analgesic like diclofenac. You may also take help of a physiotherapist who may teach you some chest exercises for this. Warm fomentation over affected are may be helpful for you. I will also advise you to visit to your operating surgeon for help. Hope I have answered your question. Let me know if I can assist you further.