I really am glad you are going for another opinion. This is not to be taken lightly. The reason why I say no traction or pulling up on the neck, is that was what was done to me and it made the pain worse, and the condition worse. I was also a fool not to go for more opinions, as that was before NT.
1st neuro did C6-7, never told me the rest of them had problems too. He denied I could still be having such pain. Well six years of misery later I was then fused C3-7. I had reversed the curve of my spine and wasn't told about it. I came to NT. very very frightened at another surgery. The first didn't go so well. I got my information right here and knew what to do when I saw the second and third opinions. I just think to play it cautious until you really have several neuro specialist concur with the DX.
Yes surgery can be ruff and very scarry. It can be all that yet still turn out OK too. I am not pain free, but it is tolerable, and I do have a better life now.
I hope this all works out for you. I will be here with anything you have a quesiton on. NT, saved my sanity, I won't leave the site, but try to help others in my same boat. Take care Chelk, let me know how the opinions go. You are in my thoughts and prayers. ginnie