So sorry you are having C5-6 issues. Yes your pain can indeed be because of this area. I have had two cervial fusions the last 21 months ago at C3-7 with all the hardware. I would recommend you see a Neuro Surgeon, as well as your ortho surgeon before you submit to the surgery. I didn't do that the first time around, and the issues in my entire neck were not addressed with that first fusion. I have DDD. The cervical issues had to be resolved by a second fusion as I had the domino effect. I should have gotten that second opinion. I was too in a hurry to have the pain overwith. I also had no health insurance, and beggers can't be choosy. I didn't have the money for continued exams as the private expence for this 1st surgery were huge. I had an auction on my behalf. I do think about this, and if I could have avioided more trouble if I had been a little more educated the first time. This is just my experience. I don't want to scare you, as I did get a fairly good result from C3-7. Not pain free, but much better. If there are any questions you need answered just keep posting. this site is here for you and so am I. ginnie