Thanks for your explanation, Lee. It doesn't sound so good, does it? I've had several rounds of physical therapy, but my copay is $25.00 and that adds up at 2 to 3 times per week. I actually still do the exercises they gave me; but they also put me on the traction table for 20 minutes at the end of each visit. That felt really good and the feeling came back to my fingers a little while I was on it. But within 5 minutes of getting up from it, the "jolts" came back. It's the same thing every morning, as soon as I get up and the weight of my head hits my spinal column, the jolts & zings start. I've only lost 2" in height, one of those within the last year alone. I thought that was bad until I read your post. I have to agree with you about the surgery and putting it off as long as possible. But I can't keep taking Prednisone. That stuff is wicked. And I can't work with this pain. I've dealt with muscle spasms in my neck and upper back for most of my life; but this nerve pain is a totally different animal. Also, I'm concerned about the moderate to SEVERE stenosis. I have my first consultation with a neurosurgeon on Monday. I will keep you posted. And let me say how nice it is to have you all to talk to about this. Have a great weekend all!