I woke up one morning and couldn't get out of bed due to back problems. My Dr. put me in PT and with that and a lot of luck as Daisy said, I didn't have surgery.
My Dr. fought me over it and kept me in PT until he got me walking again.

I will say to though, my husband had back surgery in 73 , he was around 32.and he did great up until he was around 63. I lost him 14 months ago but he was able to do about anything he wanted.

One thing that helped him though and I do believe this is weight. When he had his surgery in 73, there was a heavy set man that was on his 5th one. The Drs said that the weight makes a difference due to weight bearing on the back.

I do good if I don't overdo it which I have lately due to too many people wanting help from me but I have been sleeping on a heating pad and using Lidoderm patches on me. I would end up back in PT if I get down.

When I talk about PT, I don't mean weight lifting and bike riding. I mean good massage therapy and easy exercises.

I do believe it depends on the Dr. doing the surgery also if you needed it. My husband had one of the best at the time and he did good but I would make sure that this is a good reputable Dr. I realize things can happen anyway but we do want to better our chances.

Hope this helps and hope you stick around with us.

Ada