In reply at @jenniferhunter….thank you so much for this wonderful list of questions…..as far as the Mayo doctor, I saw a physiatrist (a couple times), who did not give me this diagnosis over a year ago and through portal messaging sees no reason to have me seen again unless I cannot reach the 6,000 steps a day marker even if I have daily issues with my back and all conservative measures that have been being utilized are helpful but not offering much pain relief.
Perhaps now, I can pursue the next step there for another opinion. I have original Medicare/supplement and am seen at Rochester Mayo for other specialists but it is getting very difficult to be seen there. Also, no matter what I do, any future will include all those questions for a surgeon if I decide to proceed. I have agreed to try an injection. Thx again and Happy Thanksgiving!