I was 14 when I had my surgery.  My rib cage had fallen down onto my hip bone and if I wasn't in my brace it was painful.  That was when they told my parents I needed surgery right away.  They told us it would take 20 yrs off my life if untreated.  I'm
not saying I never have pain because at 56 the pain was horrible.   You see my rod was fused into my spine and over the years and has made it a solid bone.  I was told i was in pain because the rest of my body was over compensating for what my back couldn't
do.  I was put on Wellbutrin and it has completely taken the pain away. In a good note, she said I will never have osteoporosis because my spine cannot compress.   I guess that is a good thing. 
 I could talk all day about this.  I find it very interesting that the human body  can do so many things.  I wish you the best of luck.  I know pain can make for a miserable day.

Don't know your age but I'm 70and had 7 fusions from L-1 to t-11 and am six months past surgery and was on fentynol and hydrocodone to exist and now am painkiller free

This is great news to hear! So often, I think that the people who have had successful surgeries move on and enjoy life...and only those still in pain remain on the social media pages telling about their unsuccessful surgeries. You have given many of us encouragement today, John Broward! Best wishes!