I was originally told I might have two surgeries for fusing L3-S1. Part of it from the back and part from the front. I had multiple issues at the time. I was in so much pain I was ready for whatever they could do. I had a great team of doctors. They were able to do all the fusions from the back in one 7 1/2 hour surgery. I was in the hospital 4 days. In a rehab facility 10 days. And then 6 1/2 drive home. Have been good ever since. I have to have help sometimes getting socks and shoes on but have managed to work around all other bending issues by using grabbers etc. Generally only wear slip on shoes. Am able to garden due to building raised beds. Am very grateful, six years later, to be pain free..