<s>[INST] How dangerous is it to live with a herniated disc at C-7? I have had DDD for over 20 years and x-ray shows disc at c-7 is obliterated almost fusing with the next vertebra, c-8. I don t want surgery with such a weak spine, so to speak. I have pain and weakness on the right shoulder and arm. Take Dexamethasone once or twice a year x 10 years, to control pain. Is there any real danger of just living with the pain unless it becomes unbearable? [/INST] Hi Welcome to Chat Doctor After going through your query I concluded that you are having cervical spondylitis with decorative disc disease. You are not willing to undergo surgery. You can take conservative treatment such as Diapering and glucosamine. Analgesic such as ibuprofen for pain relief. If you have persistent neurological such as severe weakness of upper or lower limb and numbness in limb then you should undergo operation. You can discuss with your Doctor about it. Hope your query get answered. If you have any clarification then please don't hesitate to write to us. I will be happy to help you. Take care. </s>