@kjones612 - You've hit the decision nail right on the head! Such a surgery is a big deal with an extended recovery. Your decision can be helped by thinking about risk management from a personal level.

There are obvious risks of having the surgery: The surgery itself contains some risks. The recovery is likely lengthy. Sometimes the surgery doesn't work out perfectly.

There are obvious risks of deferring surgery: You may have nearly intolerable pain that can only be mitigated with surgery. If your nerves are severely pinched for an extended period, you can permanently damage them where there might be no surgical fix.

The way I managed my personal risks was to be certain I had the very best equipment to do the MRIs and X-rays. I went to a facility that was rated very highly. I selected a neurosurgeon over an ortho as we were dealing with my spine. I consulted with several doctors including a physiatrist.

In the end - I talked to my friends, to others who had similar surgeries, and I relied on my primary care physician for advice. I elected to have both cervical and lumbar extensive work done and at this point, I'm glad I did.

No rush unless your pain is keeping you bedridden. Gather your information and I wish you the best in your decision. Have you decided where to have surgery and have you selected a neurosurgeon?