I am 48 had my first fusion two years ago. Felt fine for awhile and then had to get another. And a year later back at the Dr again. My pain comes and goes however I can honestly say I have no pain at fusion sites. I have degenerative disc disease. Broad disc? Degenerative arthritis and anklyosing spondylitis which I am sure these are the factors that cause me pain. I think it depends on what else is going on in your back.