@john316ga -- Relating to the hip issues, about 10 years back, high level pain left hip, went to orthopedic surgeon, he gave me a shot of cortisone and 2nd shot 90 days later. Big help. As far as back is concerned, I've been to two neurosurgeons because I originally figured my PN was coming from lower back and both said although I have back issues, no surgery will help with my PN, OK. Each case obviously different and I agree with you that surgery should be last option. I happened to go to two neuro docs that were not only honest but as it turned out, right. Sorry to hear about your case.