I'm sure there will be some post surgical pain, but I'm used to that (I've
had a couple of brain surgeries in the past 11 years). What I'm really
hoping for is better mobility. I know it won't be perfect, but I'd prefer
a cane to this walker I'm using at the moment.

Yes, I know about the facet joints, because the doctor gave me an
information sheet about the procedure and it specifically mentions
the facet joints. My discs are degenerating anyway, so there's
nothing they can do about that.

Okay, I've got a silly question: after the procedure and the post-op
pain wore off, were you able to sit anywhere comfortably? I haven't
been able to sit in the kitchen to eat for over a year! The old chairs
were wooden, with cushions and when I got up from the table, if I
didn't have my cane right next to me, I'd fall on the floor because
my legs were so stiff from sitting on the wooden chair. The same
thing with metal chairs or cement benches. To this day, I eat all
my meals in my room because I can't use the stools that are in the
kitchen now. Is there any chance that this will improve after the
procedure?