Cervical nerve compression from a bone spur (foraminal stenosis) or from a herniated disc needs surgery under three conditions. First is motor deficit. If the muscles that are activated by the nerve are weak, consideration needs to be given to decompressing the nerve surgically to allow the motor nerve to heal.
The second is spinal cord compression. The spinal cord is a sensitive and unforgiving structure. If the cord is compressed, there is danger of a permanent injury.
The third and most common reason for surgery is pain that is not tolerable. If you have already undergone a thorough rehabilitation program without relief, surgery would be the option.
Success rate for satisfaction after surgery should be close to 95%.
Dr. Corenman
