B"H

I agree with Doc Smith. it seems only one cutter has told you you need cutting. several other doctors have said no cutting. it seems like loosing weight and getting to a pain specialist is a good course to proceed as the pain doctor may recommend some PT or some kind of block or epidural. there is also acupuncture. I would try all the less invasive measures first. surgery is always an option. it will not go away, but it need not be the first resort.

personally, I had to have back surgery as my disc fluid was leaking out onto the nerve which is caustic like acid to skin. but, it took many procedures to figure this out and many less invasive therapies before they went hunting for the origin. my surgery was successful, but not total bliss as I still have pain from the damage caused by the leaking disk to the nerves. if I had to do it again, I would, but after exhausting all resources short of surgery.

I hope this helps you sort out the pros and cons. it sounds like you are proceeding on the right path with the pain specialist who will want new images of your spine, I am sure of it. he or she can best evaluate your nexT step,aside from weight loss which is very important. good luck to you. take care, be well, and stay well.


Sloane