Thank you so much... I'm fearful of the after pain too and how long it will be. My younger brother by 5 years had the same surgery and was back to work with Fedex delivering packages so that makes me feel a bit better. My husband had it from the front last year and doesn't have the pain any longer but has other back/spine issues. I didn't like his pain level at all. So I'm really apprehensive. I see my doc for preop tomorrow and will express my concerns. I have low back issues also. I actually went in the day of surgery back in 2007 and changed my mind after undressing. It still lets me know it's there but to this day I don't regret NOT having the surgery. Will keep you posted.