@franpat1950 Hi, I had T 4 -S 1 fused. At 58 3 years ago I could not walk but 40 ft and was bent over. My surgery outcome was great. I am straight I can walk. There are some things that are challenging without the flexibility in the spine. Couldn't do a sit up. But don't regret it ever. Recovery was easier then I expected. I had pain after surgery but not as bad as before surgery. The pain meds worked on the pain after surgery. Before surgery the nerve pain was constant and I was getting worse. After surgery the pain was getting less and less. I hope this helps any other questions let me know. Good luck