Get at least 2 and maybe 3 opinions about surgery. Surgical skills vary wildly. A friend ruined for life (now wears diapers). Web sites, check for complaints and suits on your state website, ask OR nurses who they would choose.

Do have fear of back surgery. I very, very carefully chose my surgeon for an L-4, L-5 fusion. Walked a mile in the next morning, out that day, rehab with walking 2-3 miles per day, on mtn bike in 18 days. I was 71 at the time.

Good luck.