Listen to what Buzz says about surgery being the last resort. It is between you and a trusted doctor to decide. Buzz is more than an armchair observer of things medical. Murphy's law does exist in a surgical arena. I jammed a knee a few seasons ago and deliberately chose a retired orthopedic surgeon who no longer operates but still sees patients. His only treatment course was limited to conservative treatment. The knee is now fine. Would another doc recommended surgery? I didn't have to find out. Over thirty years ago I had sciatic right side pain in my hip and butt. I flunked the straight leg raise test (Laseque's Test)--indicative of a bulging or ruptured disc at L5-S1, confirmed by a CT scan and was sent to a neurosurgeon. " I am ready when you are." and from the look in his eyes, a little too eager. I opted for conservative treatment with exercise, had a stand-up desk made to keep from sitting all the time and bought a kneel/sit chair for the office. I was lucky not to go under the knife. Good luck in your decision and results. Your choice of doctor is as important as your choice of course of action. Gil
