klg, It sounds like you are really suffering and I do not know your age but I feel you need to research the information that Mayo Clinic can offer. I went to the one in Phoenix many years ago and I was very impressed. They have a very sincere approach to everything. I did not go for my spinal stenosis but thinking about trying them again. I went to them because my grandmother, my mother, and now my little sister have ALS and they were able to verify that I do not have this. (They were able to diagnose my mother with ALS which at that time her local doctors could not.) But back to the vertiflex procedure, I must tell you that I do have some improvement..... maybe 50%. I was just expecting more but it might be too early to throw in the towel. Also, I am a very determined person to get things done and do not rely on my family as much as I should. With the vertiflex, you cannot bend, lift, or twist AT ALL for the first 6 weeks. And, I think any longer. I know on YouTube people bost of all kinds of things but depending on one's age I think the clue is to be really really careful for the 6 weeks and maybe longer. Actually, my family calls it as being stubborn. Anyway, my heart goes out to you for your pain. I have been there before. Keep researching for more info. Do not give up.