@citywoman Have you had any further imaging that may determine if something is wrong? That's a long time to be in pain. One thing to consider is that surgery creates a lot of scar tissue and it gets tight, so it can pull right into the area that was operated on. Something I could suggest is to look into Myofascial Release which can stretch out the scar tissue. I have done this for a long time, and I am a spine and ankle surgical patient. I do have to periodically work on my scars and muscles to retain suppleness and movement.

Here is our discussion on MFR where you can learn more.

Neuropathy - "Myofascial Release Therapy (MFR) for treating compression and pain"
https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/myofascial-release-therapy-mfr-for-treating-compression-and-pain/
Have you heard of MFR therapy before?

I'm sorry you're still in pain. In any spinal surgery, surgeons are working around or moving aside nerve bundles within the spinal canal. Just moving them will cause some post-op pain/discomfort, short lived. If a nerve is permanently damaged though, well that probably needs to be addressed.

A good surgeon shouldn't be offended by questioning something he or she may have done. And if your pain has persisted this long, I agree with Jennifer and a current MRI should be in order. Maybe the surgeon nicked a nerve, maybe not. But chronic pain has a source and an MRI should reveal it. And maybe it's a good time to find a new surgeon.

All the best to you.

Joe