I am new also! I don't have any great advice, as I'm suffering from the same thing, but I do agree to ask a lot of questions and get a couple of opinions. I had a cervical fusion after 4 years of chronic pain in by neck and not being able to lift or use my left arm. After the surgery and since, I have felt amazing (at the cervical level). I do think I am going to get surgery on this disc and will schedule it on Wednesday. I can no longer walk for more than a couple minutes, and I understand and sympathize with the pain. I wish you the best with whatever you decide. I can keep you posted on my surgery also.