Thesea,

I WAS in your position until the 14th of last month, when I had a spinal fusion s1/L5. I had a laminctomy about 8 years ago. Im 32, so young for the problems I have had.

I'm telling you it was the best decision FOR ME. I could not parpicate with my family as I was always in pain, could not sit for long, could not stand, couldnt walk for a long period, in the end I couldnt drive as the pain come on so quick in the car, and so amazingly painful I couldnt concentrate on driving. I have 4 kids the youngest being 1.... I was missing out on so much with him. You know I have not lifted my son more than maybe 6-8 times.... since Jan, my back and leg just could not cope. My life was hell, and I considered ending it a few times. I just could not cope.

NOW: mostly pain free, HAPPY, excited!, tired ,looking forward to the future! I'm on top of the moon. Seriously.

You read lots of horror stories over the net mostly form America, however I live in NZ, and spinal fusion rarely get done here, so much different to the US, which it's very common.

Do LOTS of research on 'trusted'websites , and only you can make the decision.

Best of luck xx