Any information on cervical spine surgery

[kolay]

I have a question regarding a recent diagnosis which I have been experienced one day of upon waking up I was unable to lift my head up off the pillow . I recently had an MRI of the c-spine which revealed  small central disc protrusion C5-C6, anterior extradural impress at C6-C7, central to left sided in nature related mainly to endplate spurring. Foraminal narrowing of the left at C6-C7. Mild degree of AP canal stenosis at 5-6 and 6-7. In Jan of 2006, I experienced the same symptoms and had an MRI done then which showed C6-C7 an eccentric disc protrusion extending to the left side. Also noted at C6-C7 is encroachment of the neural foramina which is bilteral secondary to bulging disc and bony hypertrophy.  I was sent for Physical Therapy for several weeks with somewhat improvement and I was able to manage.  Though the pain would come and go it was never as bad as it is now.  I don't understand how this could happen and I am very anxious about having surgery as with all surgeries there are risks.  Are there any other conservative options or would surgery be the best route to go since it has been going on for over a year now?  

[emily.brown]

Cervical surgery may or may not be the best treatment for you and I would strongly get at least 2 opinions.  A good neuro surgeon would not expect any thing more of his patients. I have had the cervical fusion of C4-6 and the surgery was quite easy.  I didn't even use any pain meds after the surgery.  My throat was a bit sore but other than that I felt so much better.  I had PT after surgery but quit because it made things worse. It has been 5 years and I am glad I had it done.  Good Luck

[zero1]

i had the same thing happen to me

[LLWB]

It sounds like the stenosis is gradually worsening. I would recomment seeing a good neurosurgeon for an evaluation. I had C5-6 herniated disc removed and neck fused on June 4th. I have returned to work (in one month) and am 75% better. It's worth exploring your options. I don't think PT will help with stenosis, but I may be wrong. Good luck.