[LeRoux Strydom]

Hi all

After MR scans, neuro-conductivity tests and even sticking needles into my cervical discs under an X-ray machine, my orthopaedic surgeon recommends removal of the C4/C5 cervical disc. Apparently the offending disc is degenerating, bulges out and puts pressure on my spinal cord and the attending nerves. Symptoms are neck pain, headaches, general feeling of pressure in the neck area, "pins and needles" in the lower right arm, right arm muscle ache (deltoid and bicep).

Did anyone here ever had a cervical disc removed for reasons mentioned above? What can I look forward to in terms of recovery period, symptom relief, or any other issues? Success rate, risks? Would you do it again if you had the chance?

Please help. I'm not looking forward to the procedure, but forewarned is forearmed.

LeRoux