Welcome to Neuro Talk. I am glad you found this place. You will get some tips, and make a few friends. So sorry you are having spinal problems. I too had the same as you. I am fused C3-7. Please do seek another specialist, and make sure they agree on proceedure to help you. Also please seek another pain specialist. If your pain is anything like mine was, the vicoden is not enough. I was given alot more before my fusion, to keep me comfortable. With two small children you have your hands full, without being in constant pain. You need some more help even before you get surgery. I also think that second and third opinion is really important, as I did NOT do this the first time around. I was first fused C6-7. It is important to make sure the ones above the fusion site, and below are stong and able to take the implants. In my case I had the domino effect, that those did fail, having to put me in for more surgery. It is a precaution, and you will feel better about going forward with it, when multipal docs say you need this surgery. Did they try infusions on you? Not just an epidural? I hate needles, but the Katemine infusion worked good for me for a number of months. Just an idea. Neuro talk will be there for you. I will too. I do wish you all the best in what ever you decide to do. None of it is easy, but it helps when you have friends in your corner. ginnie