I am sorry if I missed your postings. I try to visit as much as I can to welcome people to Neuro Talk. Most all of us on the site have some form of disability we are dealing with. I have had so many appts. lately, time for NT has been limited. I do want to welcome you and address some of your fears and concerns. Going for another opinion like you are doing is vital. I think that is the very best thing to do. Your symptoms do sound like they are due to lumbar problems. If you post your MRI, and need more help in understanding it, others will help you for sure. Lisa is the best in that regard, as she has done alot of research.
I have cervical issues, and have had two spinal fusions. The last was C3-7. I have a few sugestions. You will need help at home. Please get some kind of help in, a neighbor, a friend, church member and discuss this issue with your doctor. For me, pain was extreme for the first two weeks, and I didn't get around so good. i too had the curve in my neck, and that was straightened out at the time of these fusions. I was NOT able to tend to myself. Medicare/medicaid may provide some kind of help in, I would sure inquire.
Before you do the surgery, please investigate the condition of the vertrebre above and below the site to be surgically corrected. It is important that these vertrebre are in good shape. All hardware puts strain on the ones above and below. Ask your surgeon specifically about this. This happened to me, where the ones above and below did not do so well, and further surgery was needed. It is called the domino effect.
Prepare ahead of time, with good nutrition that is ready made at home. There are also wash cloths for adults, for washing that are water free for the first days you are home, and may not want to get into the shower etc. It helped me to stay feeling clean. Talk over all your pain medications carefully. I did not feel I got adequate pain control either in the hospital or at home. If you have a pain specialist, make sure they are on the same page as your surgeon. I had trouble with these two doctors of mine communicating. You will not want to walk you dogs. DO think about putting them in a facility for a few days, or get someone in to walk them for you.
Because you are at multi level of fusions, plus a curve of the spine, it is a tough surgery. I did need alot of help. I was lucky to have the friends on hand to give me help. Please try to get yourself help while you are home that first week. I wish I were your neighbor, I would be there for you. I do wish you all the best in this surgery. I hope it turns out OK. My surgery did turn out OK and I am glad I went though it. Pain is much much less than it was. if you need anything, or research, please don't hesitate to contact me. I will keep you in my thoughts and prayers. ginnie