....definately I have learned that surgery should be a last resort when there may be nerve damage if it is not done. You have been through a lot, to say the least. I had sciatica starting in my late 20's. But I had a spinal anamoly complicating things. I used a TENS unit to control it. And it did help. Some of the symptoms you describe, I have as well, but it is due to Fibromyalgia. You might want to check that out. You have to have a good doc. I hope you get your answers and some help. Take care...