As it turns out I DON'T have a meniscus tear SOME good news at last! I do have a neurosurgeon visit in a couple of weeks, time will tell how this develops. One thing is sure, there will need to be a LOT more information before I allow a neck surgery. I appreciate and am thankful for all of the helpful and supportive comments. I AM feeling a bit less depressed about this, basically just trying to get it out of my head until there is more information.