Bob,
This type of problem may be resolved with conservative chiropractic care depending on the severity of the prolapse.
Gentle movements of the cervical spine may in fact allow the disc to return to it's proper place and allow healing to occur naturally. Compared to surgery, this is conservative care. It would be at this time that rehab would be most advantagous depending on the strngth and flexibility of the neck muscles.
Good luck!
Dear Bob:
I am sorry to hear about your problem in your back. Surgery is usually the last choice. Rehab with PT is usually what we recommend initially. Whatever the etiology needs to also be addressed, whether it is arthritis, osteo, etc. Changes in lifestyle are usually also recommended, so if your overweight now there is some motivation to lose weight. Technique in lifting, posture etc is also a good idea. Prognostication is difficult to give you without seeing you and the MRI. We always hope the patient will become pain-free, that is our goal. I hope that you will become pain-free.
Sincerely,
CCF Neuro MD