@jksawyers Jack, It is difficult to keep hopeful with so many health concerns and pain. I am sorry to learn you have so many health issues to contend with. I think the question you posed to Sherry is a great question to pose to your doctors. I have had a fusion from T-12- S1. 9 months out. I continue to use PT and work on stretching and strengthening every day. For me life began to feel more normal about month 4. I still feel like a back patient and work against some hip pain but would do it again. The relief definitely outweighs how I felt before.