Good morning,

My C-5, C-6 injury occurred on 11-21-2003. Things got out of control and after it was determined that what insurance would cover the treatment a year had passed. The injury simmered down and I was able to maintain a lifestyle without the activities that I once enjoyed.
In 2005 after an MRI the Neurosurgeon recommended surgery asap. I wanted to wait and now in 10-06 two weeks ago I woke up at 1:00am in pain and you all know that pain.
I waited a day and ended up leaving work and went to an ER. They prescribed Oxycoden and another pain killer. I revisited my neurosurgeon and he is recommending a new MRI. Now ins is griping and this could take a few more weeks. I know I need surgery immediately however, what is the long-term damage if I choose to live a sedentary lifestyle?
If I do the surgery I want my Golf game back and I want to run again and I want to coach youth sports again. How realistic is this that I will be able to do these things again after surgery?
It seems to me that a lot of people leave this board after the worst of the pain has diminished.
Could I get input from people whom have had the surgery that at first thought it failed, but are now living a normal lifestyle again?

Thanks,
dodg