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Just had major neck surgery.

Stix2Strings

Stix2Strings

Feb 20, 2017
59
65
Northeast Ohio
#1
I just had major neck surgery, cervical laminectomy, c3 through c7 and am kind of freaking out about the possibility of not being able to play anymore. Has anyone else had similar surgery? Any and all encouragement welcome but don’t pull any punches if negative results are a reality.
 
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#2
I hope your recovery goes well. I had neck/throat/tongue cancer 5 years ago. It was a bit rough for a while to hang a bass around my neck. I would highly suggest ask your surgeon what therapy and exercise may enhance and expedite your ability tp play again. It's possible you may have to explore strap design or other methods of holding the bass. If you want to play again, you will. Do not, and I mean do not give up. There may be frustration. I definitely had a few moments. You have to believe that it will be something you can overcome. From your post I feel like you're on your way!! God bless, recover soon, and PLAY !!!
 
#3
Hope you recover back to full strength soon.
If your neck, and hanging the bass on a strap is the main issue, it might be interesting to try an electric upright in the meantime. They come with stands, you don't have to carry, you can sit down and play... and it's fun..
They mostly come in 40" scale but some in 34". NS Omnibass are good 34"s. Ibanez makes one as well.
 
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#4
Forgot to mention that part. I was back up and playing in about 6 months. Still deal with muscle and nerve damage, mostly from intensive radiation. But, I am playing. Never thought I would but just kept with it. Thanks for the suggestions about an upright. I am 64 and have reduced my playing to church and about half a dozen charity gigs per year. It's all I want to do and keeps the itch scratched. Best wishes and stay in touch if you like. Always enjoy gabbing with another bass player.
 
#6
I wish you the best of luck and a speedy recovery.

I had c4 to c7 vertebrae partially removed and then reinstalled to have an astrocytoma tumor removed from inside the spinal cord. The tumor and it’s removal caused a permanent loss of sensation but no loss of motor control.

10 years later, I broke c1 and c2 doing a very bad dismount off a mountain bike. 100% unrelated to the previous surgery. I spent 4 months in a halo and 6 more months in a hard collar. As a result, I have a limited range of neck twisting motion. But thankfully, no spinal cord damage. Lucky,lucky, lucky...That was 17 years ago.

I play at least one of my basses every day. I still ride my bike. I still do anything and everything I used to do, albeit slower...(the neck doesn’t slow me down, it’s just that I am getting on in years.

I’m inspired by people with much more severe physical limitations. As long as your doctor doesn’t restrict you from certain activities and even if he/she does, push the limits. Just find a way to do what you want to.

Even though I don’t know you, you’re my brother and I wish only the best for you. Keep on jammin’......
 
#7
Another option is a performer stand to hold your bass. There are a bunch of different ones out there- K&M, Gracie, MBrace, and Viking Guitar Stand are a few.

A friend has a lovely USA MTD 5 string that he plays on a stand - I have played several times and it's very comfortable and pleasant to use. In fact it's kinda cool in upper positions because the bass doesn't move with you so it's easier to be precise. Think of it as a stand up desk for bass players!

Hope your healing is quick and uneventful!
 
#9
Thanks everyone , I appreciate the encouragement. The performance stands are very intriguing. I have been looking to utilize a drum practice pad stand that I have sitting around, this has given me a couple of ideas. I am also gassing for that Ibanez UB804 electric upright anyway
 
#10
+1 on getting a stand. I got an Mbrace right before my cervical fusion (c4-c7). I was able to practice right away because I didn't have to lift the bass or hold it. I thought I would just use it while recovering but wound up liking it enough that I still play and gig with it (6 years later).
One gig still in the neck brace:

And today.
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