[Forte Runningrock]

What will you do when you can't even limp sit, stand, lay down, bend down, take a crap?

If your problem is managable, certainly, avoid surgery. It's risky. But if your condition gets worse, you have to do something about it if you want to have any sort of life worth living. Trust me, it isn't pleasant to be in that much pain 24 hrs a day. (thank God for oxycontin!!)

I hope you never degenerate to the point where you need surgery, but at least you know it's available, and now a less risky one is an option as well. I'll have to ask my Doc about this, as i'm long overdue for a third operation.

[sageb1]

I'm not discounting the benefit. I'm just being cranky.

[Odyssey-x]

I know what you mean. I had back surgery twice with good results. Having a bulging disc and sciatica is a horrible experience even with prescription pain medication.

[Lily4Jesus]

My brother started to have back problem in 12-04. He walked like a 80 year old man. His legs were always numb and he was always in pain.
He went back to Peru where we came from and it took him 9 month to decide to have surgery after all kind of treatments, Chiropractors, thermal bath, acupuncture, etc.

He was operated by two doctors and one to supervise the two. Good doctors. Peruvian doctors have good reputations. I had a major surgery there too.

The beauty of all this, no only my brother is completely heal, and walking without pain and straight, but it only cost him $5,000 dollars. The surgery took 4 hours. It was supposed to take 2 hours, but since my brother was premi. there was something else that needed correction .

I must add, prayers also works. He was very afraid to have the surgery but I prayed over that fear because the doctors told him that if he waited, it would be worse since he is now 62 years old.

Thanks to the doctors in Peru and to JESUS!!!!!!!! my brother is heal and in good spirit. P.S. one of the doctors was related to one of my brother's friend. That explain the cost but it's cheaper there even if you don't know a doctor. Maybe a few thousand more, no more than 8 K