It sounds to me as this is not only a spinal/mechanical issue you have. It sounds autoimmune/inflammatory in nature. Do you know that damaged nerves in one small area can signal healthy nerves and cause inflammation and the inflammation can spread? It sounds as if your problem did stem from your back surgery originally and indeed has evolved into a chronic pain disorder similar to central pain syndrome. You still need an MRI as you still may have discal instability in your lumbar.

I find that I communicate easier,quicker and more streamlined with my doctors when I type out all symptoms I am experiencing since last visit. I describe what I feel, how long, and what I have tried. I keep a copy and I make them out a copy in my file. We then use the letter I drafted as a discussion point, and it maximizes the 15 minutes that I get during an appointment.

Aussie