[doublehippy]

Hello and thanks for reading! It's been suggested that I have a double level fusion done due to DDD and fairly moderate stenosis. My goal has been to stay out of an OR, since, in the past 8 years, I've had 2 total hip replacements and a colon re-section (Diverticular abcess). That said, I realize I can't continue in the pain I'm in. I've done PT, had ESI's and selective nerve root injections (OUCH!!)...nothing's helped. I use a walker for any sort of long distance walking and have done so for the past 2 years. Needless to say, I'm extremely frustrated given the fact that I have 2 brand spanking new hips that work perfectly and still can't walk without pain!
I'm all for minimally invasive procedures and have read about the laser procedures, Axialif, endoscopic procedures and, just recently, have been researching the minimally invasive lumbar decompression (Mild procedure). I realize I may not be a candidate for any of these, but am frightened to death of a fusion....knowing that it's not necessarily successful and that one fusion leads to another and another, etc.
I've considered seeing a chiropracter...should I? Also considering acupuncture (did some before my first hip replacement)? Would some ultrasound help? I take nothing but 800 mg. Motrin (save what Tramadol I have like it's gold!). Oh....and I also have chronic groin pain. Went thru an aspiration and bone scan to rule out infection in my left hip prosthesis two years ago....both negative. Could my back issues be causing this groin pain? It hurts to cough (no hernia) and it feels like muscle/ligament pain. I've learned to live with that. As I sit here typing, the right side of my lower back is on fire. Sometimes, when walking, I have pain on both sides...up high, near the pelvis/waistline. Arrrrghhhh! Any more, I can't tell if my pain is muscle, the arthritis...or the stenosis. I'm sure it's all!
Really want to try Neurontin, but am scared of the side affects. Just may ask pain management to try the Topomax. It's scary how we all react so differently to drugs...but I won't know unless I try?
So sorry to have written a book.....I think I'm rambling. So much more to say, but enuf for now. Just need an ear and, hopefully, some guidance.
Oh.....and BTW.....are any of you familiar with Dr. Jho here in Pittsburgh?
He does an endoscopic procedure for lumbar stenosis without fusion.
Thanks and blessings!
Linda