Hi! I too, was experiencing the same problems you were having. I had a severe disc herniation with nerve root compression on my L5/S1. I also had a discetomy/lamintectomy but it was open rather than micro surgery. I too was completely pain free afterwards but as time has gone on it has become disabling. Went 12 years in Law Enforcement to now disabled. Anyway, I just wanted to say that I am glad your surgery went so well and to not over do it even though you feel so much better. Also, treat your back real nice. Even though you feel good it will not be back to 100 percent mechanically wise. No bend and twists! Glad you are doing great!