I think that each case and person is likely different. I had a severely herniated disc with terrible sciatica about 7 years ago. It got to the point where I was barely able to walk, in extreme pain all the time, could not lie down to sleep and on serious pain meds without much help. I went for therapy, cortisone shots, and whatever else was available until my doc suggested that we had exhausted all options and that surgery was now the only real option.

Many people told me to be wary of surgery, so I was very reluctant, but felt I did not have much choice. I recall waking up in the recovery room and was ecstatic when I realized that for the first time in many weeks I was not in pain. It was the best thing I could have done and I am sorry I did not go sooner.

I would agree that it is best to be conservative and try other options and get more than one opinion. At the same time, sometimes surgery is the best option. The pain and other issues may let you know when it is the way to go. Good luck.