@sassytwo @jenniferhunter
Earlier in this thread I discussed my similarity to the @sassytwo case. I have had a significant change in my condition, and have seen two surgeons since then. My spine surgeon who did my L5-S1 19 months ago, now recommends an L5-T11 decompression and fusion to replace the original surgery. I sought out a second opinion from a well known and respected spine surgeon in our area, whom I shared my MRI with. He said "you don't want that surgery." He himself is 50 yrs old and has already had two back surgeries. He suggested I get back to my prior exercise and stretching routine, and lose some weight (I am slightly overweight but by no means obese). How could two surgeons have completely opposite recommendations? Are there approaches to surgery in the spine medical community that are that divergent? I could have been left in a quandary with these opposite recommendations, EXCEPT that, at about the same time, my pain was receding, and within the span of about 48 hours was easily down to a pain level of zero to 1. This was after about 8 weeks of pain (levels up to about a 7), with relief only when sitting down. I came to the conclusion that I would be a fool to subject myself to surgery with all its risks and possible complications at this point. Of course I know it could return at any time, and there is no guarantee on how long my relief will last. Had I not gotten the unexpected relief, no doubt I'd be going for a THIRD opinion. For all I know, maybe there is regular debate in neurological medical circles on when to pull the trigger on surgery.