I've had neck issues for almost 30 years, am 68 now. Used to be a lot more painful but has evolved to where it mostly limits my mobility. Still, can't imagine riding anything but drop bars, mine are about an inch below saddle height. It's hard for me to look up when riding but I've adapted, glasses have to be rimless, no visor , light helmets etc. On the hoods mostly, but on long flats I'll go to the drops for fun, but can only look up and see the road every 50 yds or so. Helps to be in a rural area. The Stenosis moved south to my lower back, but if I concentrate on my core holding me up then I've no issues while riding. Push the navel towards the bars and core takes over, shoulders and elbows relax. Upright /flat bar bikes put my neck in a weird position, kind of like a Heron. Just can't do them.