Sonata:
I have been dealing with cervical issues for over 6 years now and am about to take the leap to have surgery. That doesn't make me an expert but I can share some thoughts! I have a herniated c5/6 and bulging c6/7 with an osteophyte touching the thecal sac (which surrounds the spinal cord) and foraminal stenosis and some central stenosis. I have been dealing with the symptoms through conservative measures--physical therapy, massage and exercise--and have had epidural steroid injections. The recent concerns prompting the decision for surgery are arm weakness, a change in my EMG results and some signs that things are destabilizing in my neck.
So, I think that there are questions you need to ask re nerve impingement and especially central canal narrowing, further testing (EMG for one), and conservative measures to try before making a decision to intervene surgically. It is almost a given that different surgeons will have different opinions and even when they do offer surgery, they will offer different options. It is confusing and frustrating and you need to educate yourself and be your own advocate.
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