@daisy22 I also have radiculopathy that affects feet, lower legs and buttocks. Cause was an accident damaging L2-3 disc. My latest MRI shows fluid pockets in the damaged area. Four surgeons have denied working on me. The last one (at Yale) said it was because of the fluid pockets. They are afraid that disturbing those could cause problems and make things worse. Is that what your surgeons told you also?

@daisy22 Before my lumbar laminectomy in 2022, I saw 5 different neurosurgeons before choosing one. MRI had shown I have NO disc left between L5 and S1, and ONE of the surgeons said he would do a laminectomy, but he would also put a spacer between L5 and S1. He said if not I would be back within a year. The surgeon I chose did a laminectomy from L2 to S1, but he did NOT do anything between L5 and S1. I think that would have involved a fusion. A year later, when I was complaining of he neuropathy/radiculopathy, he said, "If I went back and did a fusion of L4 to S1, that MIGHT help your neuropathy symptoms." The word MIGHT caused me to hesitate.... plus a fusion would be a two day procedure.... front one day, back the next day.... and there is always the possibility it could make it worse. So I'm still dealing with the numbness, tingling, weakness in calves.... and a constant nagging pain in lower back. The numbness has affected my balance, and that is my worst issue to deal with. I wish I could find someone who had an idea of how to put some spacer material between L5 and S1 without having to do a fusion.... but it seems it needs to be a fusion or nothing. I admire your determination, Daisy..... We have to advocate for ourselves.... and if one doctor is not helping, we need to find another.... I wish you well!! Mike