fusion/spine questions

[yvette]

Well I have been told due to my vertebrae's movement I am not a candidate for the adr. - So now faced with the option of fusion or living like this.

My diagnosis, severe DDD of L5-S1 with ofcourse spondyothesis. The thing is he said that the vertebrae is not activley moving anymore when seeing flexion/extension xrays and no nerves are impinged. He said that the pains in my legs and feet are from nerve irritation from the disc and vertebrae.

So would this be considered instability? Because I have read if instability is causing the problems then fusion would probably help. The doctor seemed to think fusion would help with all the pain in legs and feet since nerves are not impinged....although I don't understand that whole thng with constant feet and leg pain.

I am assuming the last two surgeons who told me I need adr and wait for the fda, would now recommend fusion since I can't get adr.

Surgeon said, that he believes I am one of the best candidates although that does not gaurantee sucess. He said my films are all cut/dry with this being the only problem area. My age 36, no other health problems and my weight.

I asked him if I were his wife, what would he suggest, he told me if it were the same exact scenario he would tell her to do it.

He did explain I could live the rest of my life like this on pain meds, which over time would not work as well, but could be changed. Or try surgery, which may get me back to work with a wonderful recovery, or may still need pain meds.

Although I have great support from husband, he has never experienced back pain and its such a huge decision, I am trying to clearly find my best chances in making this decision. Obviuosly this isn't going away as I've tried that. Shots, therapy nothing has helped. Been off work for almost a year.

Any insights, would be greatly appreciated.