I'm in a somewhat similar situation although I have not had surgeries. I have three books by an MD named John Sarno. He gives a very unusual take on back pain. He is now dead (of old age, not back pain!). If you are interested, you should be able to get a used one cheaply on Amazon. When I work with the mind tools he suggests I do feel better. Right now I have not been doing that and the pain has returned. Must give self kick in the butt.