You should also look at PT for your back issues before considering surgery. If you can find an osteopathic PT or one with that experience, it is better than the general PT offices. I have a hip that has bursitis and, finally, found that the combination of the shot to eliminate inflammation and then PT to strengthen muscles and improve flexibility was the trick. I have pirformis syndrome, so the stretches manage it very well, along with sciatica. I do have degeneration in my spine, but no pain there. I haven't had to go back for a shot in a couple of years.