Multiple level HNP's and Protrusions

I have multi level cervical DDD and have had problems due to it for about 4 years.  I am curretnly doing conservative care such as Ibuprofen, muscle relaxers, exercise and PT.  My last imaging study showed:

C3-C4: Small focal central HNP mildly indents the ventral cord margin. Foramina patent.

C4-C5: Shallow broad central disc protrusion with effacement of the ventral subarachnoid space and minimal diffuse ventral cord flattening. Foramina patent.

C5-C6: Right paracentral HNP with right ventral cord indentation and moderate right foraminal narrowing. Left foramen patent.

C6-C7: Shallow central disc protrusion with ventral thecal indentation and effacement of ventral subarachnoid space but no visible cord impingement. Foramina patent.

I have been advised that I may need to look at surgical intervention.  I am very wary.  My ortho doc is a spine specialist but should I also see a neurosurgeon?  Based on the study and the fact that I continue to have pain and repeated herniations, can I continue with conservative care or do I need to look into surgery?  Are there any clinical trials that would leave me with more ROM?  Is there anywhere in the US where they are doing multi-level disc replacement?  Any advice would be sooooooo welcome!  Thanks!

[dr_simran]

Dear,
The degenerative changes and the bulge cause pressure over the nerve roots causing pain. Surgery should be the last option as it it does not give 100%results Treatment options are geared toward pain relief.  Pain medications such as NSAIDs, corticosteroids orally or injected, anti-spasm drugs, anti-convulsants to help with the burning pain, and in some cases, narcotic pain relievers are given.
He should go in for Physical therapy such as hydrotherapy, massage, and hot/cold therapy.
Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS) is a treatment in which a painless electrical current is sent to specific nerves through electrode patches that are placed on the skin. The mild electrical current generates heat that serves to relieve stiffness, improve mobility, and relieve pain
Treatment methods should be focused on pain relief and maintaining quality of life.Although slow, usually these conservative treatments relieve pain.Surgery should be the last option as the results are not consistent and is not always successful.

Refer http://www.spineuniverse.com/displayarticle.php/article180.html
Best

[MVanS]

Hello, thank you for your reply.  I have tried all conservative therapies available and am currently doing exercising, physical therapy, traction, tens, manual manipulation, ibruprofen, muscle relaxers.  I have been doing these for the last four years.  However, I continue to have recurretn herniations at least 4 times per year.  My pain has now become somewhat chronic.  Previously it would go away between herniations.  I do not do silly things like lift heavy loads.  I herniate simply rolling over in bed.  I am hoping surgery is NOT warranted in my case but was hoping for some advice on what surgery woudl entail, what kinds of outcomes other people have had, if anyone has had multi-levels, as i do, and what they are doing to resolve their pain.
Thanks!

[MVanS]

also, a concern is that with repeated herniations, am I causing repeated strain on my cervical spine?  I am looking to have a family in the next few years and worry my body would not be able to handle the strain at present.