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Don't despair. Do get opinions from at least 2 specialties (ortho, neurosurg, physiatry). Many specialists do not consider your problem a surgical one. A proven diagnosis is a must. What exactly is causing the pain. Epidural blocks help many for short or long durations. Exercises gently with lots of intermittant bed rest is a good idea. Surgeons will eventually operate (hopefully with appropriate indications). Non-surgeons who care will ply the non operative route. The big question is finding pain relief now by meds, position, or pain modifying blocks to give you the positive thought processes that accompany comfort. A rush to surgery may be the first of several surgeries with no predictable cure from any.