I also agree with everything Jennifer said. Make sure you check the Dr's track record and the hospital infection rate also. Each patient is different and until the surgery is completed they can't specifically comment and be held to it. For instance what if they told me 6 weeks and for me it turned out to be 9 weeks because it was more severe than the usual cases. A walker can also be arranged by the hospital social worker. Do you have family that can come assist you in the beginning? I had to make sure I had easy clothing and everything at my finger tips. No shoes, only slipons. I could not even think of taking a bus ride, changing my sheets or even grocery shopping. My bedroom and bathroom were all prepared ahead if time . I had a L4 microlaminotomy and microdisectomy. Don't want to scare you, just caution you to be prepared and have a friend or family member to help you. I would have had to go to assisted living if not for a family member helping. Everyone's case is different. Prayers for less pain and a speedy recovery