You are very right. No surgery unless there is cord compression and that you have a risk of being paralized. I was in the same boat, scared, in tears, and found NT. I am fused c3-7 and it did help me. I had been told I could be paralized without it. I will be waiting to hear what your doc. says. Try to bring a friend with you, just incase so much information is given to you that you could forget some part. Bring your pain chart, and former records if you can. I wish you all the best and will be thinking about you at this appt. I remember that fear quite well. NT and me too, we are here for you. ginnie