I have cervical HNP, with issues at each level except c7/T1. I have a large paracentral and lateral disc bulge at c5/c6 (this is new) a diffuse disc bulge at c6/c7, severe left neural foraminal narrowing at c4/c5. I had PLIF last year for the spine problems and now am being told that ACDF surgery is necessary. I am concerned about how quickly my symptoms have been progressing. Neck, shoulder, arm and hands pain. Numbness at base of skull. Pain to the touch on the lower portion of the skull. Loss of strength on both right and left side (hands, arms) and the pain is constant and debilitating. I have degenerative disc disease assuming from my age in part (56), and originally injured my neck and back 23 years ago. I am worried about rupture of these discs and how quickly I should have this surgery.