[Hi Dave ,

I think most of us were scared of the surgery I had c4-c7 fusion in 7-2010. I have no regrets. However-- that being said I had no choice all 4 disc were pressing the spinal cord and I was in mind blowing pain prior to surgery.Yes, there are risk to this surgery of adjacent disc disease for the level above and below fusion site-- those good disc take the brunt of the new hardware. That being said this surgery is usally done to avoid perm neuro problems. I agree with Lessa due to risk involved u should always get at least 2 or 3 consutls. There is a procedure called ESI (epidural steroid injections) that has worked for some of my friends and family. If surgery is only viable option with a single fusion you should turn out ok. Pain wise surgery itself was not bad at all for me ----much better for it. Im actually in the process of doing a flip home and doing much of the work myself. On top of that I work 10 hr days in a office. If you made up your mind going thru the surgery have things around the house like soup,yougart ,soft food for the first week and straws in case your in a collar they helped alot even when taking meds in case your throat is swollen for a few days. If you have a recliner-- i slept in that for awhile but I was in worst shape then you prior to surgery. I was actually going parlyzed on right side--- this surgery gave me my life back. With a single fusion you should be able to due most physcial activties in time but dont push it until your fully fused. I walked alot during my recovery to gain back energy level. Lifting should not be done for several months and avoid alot of bending and twisting until your told your fused. If u have any further ? feel free to ask--I remember i spent alot of time wondering about this surgery and fear of my future--as I said it all turned out for the better. I wish I didnt spend all the time worrying looking back--because --next thing u know you will be home and on the mend within 24 hrs. Wish you all the best!!!