This is wear and tear arthritis, osteoarthritis,(Spondylosis, not the same as spondylitis), it does not affect the nerves/spinal chord (Myelopathy and Radiculopathy. Basically, normal age related fun and games that can be fixed by physical and massage therapy with otc nsaids. Yay! Doable! A pita, but doable. Whew! 😃 At least its not surgery necessary, yet, as long as you do the physical therapy. Don't do it, or quit doing it, it's "the cage" for you.😬 That's what a couple neurosurgeons told me that I need 5 years ago. I was in PT at the time for extreme TMJ. I had excruciating TMJ/Inner ear pain every time I spoke or ate anything, basically couldn't open my mouth without pain. My DPT worked on my neck releasing the myofascia tissue, had me relearn proper posture, many strengthening exercises for front of neck and upper thoracic/shoulder stuff.

Always get 2 or 3 consultations if your insurance allows and there is time. My policy is they must all be from different medical groups/hospitals. That way they do their own films. At least 2 of those drs need to have much the same diagnosis and recommendation before I consider a procedure. When it comes to spine work, a senior Radiologist friend of mine who had 3 neck surgeries between he and his wife recommended having a Neurosurgeon instead of an Orthopedic Surgeon do it, they have a few extra classes and hours of residency focusing on the nerves. You want the best chance of those connecting after the procedure. I had a friend once who had her lumbar worked on by an Ortho she had researched and when she woke up she couldn't feel her left leg. That was 12 years ago and she still can't use it.