Severe Spinal Stenosis-4 level fusion recommended
 

I have recently been diagnosed with the above plus spondylolithesis. The doctor wants to fuse the lower back from L2-S1. I would only consider surgery if I could no longer walk, I think. I would like some info from any of you with experience with this condition or surgery. I am 5'5" and weigh 172. (BMI = 29.5). I am sitting in a hard chair and using a heating pad for pain relief right now.

1. Has anyone had a multi- level fusion? Did it decrease your pain? Increase your function?

2. If you chose not to have surgery, how are you managing the pain? I am wondering if water aerobics, swimming or bicycling might be helpful. The doctor said yes, but I would like to hear from others who have the condition.

I was diagnosed with spodyloiyhesis 20 years ago and lower lumbar fusion, L2 - L4. I have never had any pain since. Although I have heard horror stories from those who have had 3 to 4 surgeries without any success. 5 years ago, I also had cervical fusion. Again, I have had no pain since. I had an outstanding doctor in Melbourne, FL who is considered a leader in this field. I have total movement in my lower back as well as neck.
Has your doctor suggested you lose some weight? A little extra weight can put stress on your back and cause pain (as any expected mom can tell you).

do consider getting a second opinion as well as doing extensive research on the alternatives to surgery that may be available for your specific condition.

Understand what the long term results could be(5-10 years out) with and without surgery.

Do your home work......surgeries are not reversible (usually)!!!!!

btk

I'd go to Dr. Spurrier, he won't do surgery unless you will for sure be better.
Bicycling and water walking or swimming are a good way to allievate the pain. If you do nothing , nothing will help your back. Go slow at first but it gets easier as you do it. Keeping exercise up is the key. Use the topical gels, etc....Surgery , I agree, only if you can't walk.

Get a second opinion!
Do back surgery only as a last resort.
If you still have pain after a spinal fusion, you're out of options