[dshobbies]

James,

As for having surgery, only you can decide if and when. There's no going back and your spine will be forever altered no matter which procedure you decide on.

Having said that, I feel living your life in pain is a waste. You can't sit which means you can't do so many things that might be important in your life. I assume you are not living a decent life. But, perhaps that's good enough for you. We alll have different priorities in life.

Your pain is coming from nerve compression, probably your disc material pressing on your spine. Neurontin or Lyrica can help with that pain and though they play tricks with your brain, neither make you sleepy.

We're here to help, whether you decide on surgery or not. But reading between the lines - you're not in a mood for details - possibly tells of your discontent. There is help if you want it but it does come with risks.

Dale