The biggest" issue", are the ones that state Severe. However, if surgery gets to be the option you need, those verterbre need to be in good condition. So write this question down at the top of your list to ask the neurologist. Get details from him, let no question go unanswered. For the best results, and confidence, you need all the truth in detail, and real dicussion with your doctor. It will be OK, even if you have to have the surgery. None of it is fun, but a life in pain isn't either. I had a good outcome with my surgery, so I know for sure, that this is possible. I would hesitate on alot of PT at this point, until you get more information. Not all PT works for spinal issues. I did this, and it made my condition worse. If it hurts Stop. Ask your doctor OK?
Keep us posted. All of us who have had spinal fussions or back issues do care about you. Hope you have some good support there at home too. Keep us posted. ginnie

Ginnie, you're awesome. I will definitely make sure all of my questions are answered. I'm slowly working my way towards seeing a neurologist. Since I'm not flush with cash, I've been going to a low-income clinic for about a year, and they are just now referring me to someone who can help. It has sucked being in this much pain and seeing a doctor who thinks I'm either: 1) making up the pain to get pain medicine or 2) only dealing with some muscle tightness, but at least I'm headed to a pretty good hospital now.

I will be sure to keep you guys updated, but I probably won't get any new information for at least a few weeks.

I can't tell you how much you guys have helped me with your support and information. You guys are the best!

I just had a MRI done on Tuesday and the reason why I had that done was the bottom of my feet from the ball to my toes they feel like the fell asleep. I have to move my toes a lot just to start feeling them again. My lower back is in pain if I stand too long and then I feel like I'm about to collaspe. I have that much pain I get shooting pain into my hips and down to my knees. My results say something about mild disc dessication and degeneration at the L5-S1. Also it stated something about the L1-L11 L2-3 levels are unremarkable. It also had stated that my L3-4 level there is slight compromise of the lateral recess bilaterally with mild facet joint prominence. my L4-5 there is a diffuse annular bulge with slight ventral flatting of the thecal sac. And my results go on and on. I dont understand what that says except maybe I have a bulging disc. If anyone knows what this says I would be greatful.

Here's an update:

I saw a neurosurgeon today. He recommended a few weeks of physical therapy and a steroid injection. He said that if I wasn't feeling better after those few weeks, he would recommend surgery. It didn't sound like he was optimistic about me finding relief outside of surgery.

Unfortunately, my insurance doesn't cover physical therapy, so I'm trying to figure out what to do about that.