My back is fused, Mike. Hurts like hell every day, all the way to my toes.
They did it 6 years ago and I'm seeing a neurosurgeaon at Cleveland Clinic right now.
My hope is to get it ironed out and get the rods and screws removed.

Mind ya, I smashed my back up in an accident, it wasn't just wear and tear.
They'll tell you surgery may be an improvement, but you have to temper your expectations.
Mine got better, for sure. But only enough better that I can stand it. I have to baby it and ice it and take lots of anti-inflammatories and muscle relaxers to keep it under control.

Point being, read up on it a lot so you know what to expect.
That way when it's all said and done you'll be prepared to take care of it. :-)
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Thanks Scott!
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Best of luck to ya bro, I'm thinking about seeing a specialist myself for my sciatica. Pain is minor but I'm getting sensation down my leg. Chiropractor really didn't help much, so it's about time to see a real doc.
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Good luck bro, may want to look into injections also if the pain is not too bad.
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Good luck Mike. As others have said don't hesitate to get a second or third opinion. You might want to look for a doc that works on athletes.:-) Had one work on my knee. It ended very well. Prayer sent for you no matter whether you decide to fuse or not. I wish you well.
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Prayers sent for you, Mike.
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A colleague of mine had the exact same symptoms as you. Rather than spinal fusion surgery, it might be worth while to inquire about having a spinal cord stimulator implanted.

He endured 3 spinal fusions over about 5 years starting at L5 and ending at L2 (Discs leaking fluid). The fusions dealt with the leaky discs, but the pain shooting down his leg remained. These surgeries are quite invasive, and he was left with scar tissue interfering with his spinal cord.

This past fall, he had a spinal cord stimulator implanted and has had a reduction of about 60% in pain.

The stimulator is far less invasive than the fusion. It may be an alternate option to consider.

I wish you good luck and a healthy outcome!
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Hey might nothing but good vibes and the best of thoughts!

Wait does this affect our chips.. oh wait you sent those already, ok all good here. :-) :-)

Seriously though, hope you get some good news my friend!
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Thanks guys, I watched a video of the surgery, I don't think I am to that point yet!!
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Best thoughts and prayers to you Mike. Back pain is the worst. Sorry for your pain.
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Do you stretch your back and lower body daily? Muscle tension contributes to back pain immensely.
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I watched a video, too. It was gross. Gaack.
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Yes, I think I am also going to buy an inversion table :-)
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Ya Scott, don't think I am down with that until I have exhausted all options.
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