I am 20 years old and had my first surgery in December2006, i had laminectomy at L3-L4,L4-L5,and L5-S1. I was going good for the first 10 months but i woke up one day and the pain started just like it did the first time I went for another MRI and it shows i have a large bulging disc at L5-S1. I'm going for an epidural injection in about a week, but I've tried 3 before my first surgery and am not too hopeful that it will work. I don't know what to do, I'm busy with school and it's very frustrating that I can't join my friends without being in immense pain. I have to stay home like an old man. My surgeon said to try another surgery and if that didnt work to try fusion. I dont want to try fusion because I'm too young and I hear that it is a terrible recovery. Does anyone have advice for someone my age? I can't keep living like this, and I can't keep taking pain meds.

Bschra3,

Hello and welcome to NeuroTalk. Great to see you have come to be with us. You will find a great number of caring, supporting members here willing to help each other as they can.

Again welcome, looking forward to seeing you around.

Darlene

Hi bschra and Welcome to NT. I'm sorry you are in so much back pain and yes, at a very young age to be dealing with all that. I had L4-L5 disc herniation about 11 yrs ago. They wanted to do surgery right away, but I went to PT several times and seemed to get it settled down.

Then, as soon as I would "overdo" it , the pain in my lower back would shoot down my legs. My R ft was always numb. I have had 3 epidurals and don't think I will ever do another. But, it was a quick fix the first time. (lasted about 10 wks.) The 2nd and 3rd tx didn't help. That does not mean it won't for you tho.

When my back/leg starts up now, I just lay low for a couple of days and it seems to calm down. But, I am retired, not in school like you and definitely not 20. Maybe you should seek another opinion or a pain specialist.

Sorry, I am no help, but I know you will find great info and support here at NT. Welcome again.

Thanx for what you had to say. I just got my epidural injection this morning so we'll see how that goes. If I don't find any relief, I'm probably going to get another opinion but it's so tough to decide for surgery right now with school and all. Ill let you know the deal is it comes.