I blew out my C-4 and C-5 a few years back MRI also revealed a bone spur pressing on my spinal cord. The pain was horrible. sleepless nights etc... I suffered paralysis on my thumb and index finger on my right hand - There was absolutely no riding. Had to go through my HMO's therapy crap which was worthless. Finally when it was getting worse they gave me an Epidural Injection Procedure using X-ray. The first injection reduced pain by 60% three weeks later the second procedure alleviated all my pain. No more numbness in my hand and fingers, no pain. I still don't have the mobility I use to have but I can ride my bike with very little discomfort.