Hello and welcome,
here is the Useful Stickys link - some of our polls and articles listed in the newest posts.
http://neurotalk.psychcentral.com/showthread.php?t=84

I haven't had surgery either - but I believe it can take many months to recuperate - slow and steady is the key - not something to rush.

I don't think you would be comfortable at the beach at 1 month post op.

Have you had MRIs and xrays of the C & T spine?
to verify no c- spine vertebral cause and that there is no extra cervical rib?

have you considered seeing an expert chiropractor or body worker?
To address any postural or alignment issues?
see the stickys post #1 for chiropractic info {C1 C2 misalignments}