I can tell you this. If the FIRST steroid shot doesn't work, do NOT let them give you any more!!! They usually want to give a series of them. Some doctors tell their patients that the shots have to "build up" in the system -- and that's a bunch of LIES. It does NOT build up in the system. If it doesn't work the first time, it will NEVER work. So don't let them do any more if the first doesn't work. Also, from what i've read recently, they recommend only 3 in a year's time. Some doctors argue this point.

ANY kind of surgery can come with problems. For instance, there is the "Domino effect." That's where the levels above/below fail after surgery because they have to take on more of the load. That means more surgery is required, and then the levels above/below THAT level fail, etc. It's a vicious circle!!! Plus, surgery is only for mechanical problems. It is NOT for pain. Chances are really good that you'll have the same pain after surgery that you had before. Doctors don't tell you these things.

So try ALL conservative methods before ever considering surgery. Later studies have shown that people who have had physical therapy have the SAME results as people who have gone thru surgery!!!

Do your homework, and research -- ALOT. When I had all my surgeries, it was before the internet, so I wasn't able to research like I would have preferred -- or talked to people like you can now. And boy do I regret it. I never would have had surgery. I'm disabled now because of it.

Best of luck -- and God bless. Let us know what you decide, ok? Hugs, Lee