I had 3 levels of lumbar fused. 2 operations , 17 yrs apart. 1st one went so well that I was back to work in 9 wks and to the gym in 12. 2nd had to fuse 2 more and replace hardware from the 1st. Didn’t work out so well but I was 60 then. It’s the last thing you want to do and , it sounds that you’re a long way from that. PT really works. Proper lifting technique is vital for the rest of your life. Stretching really helps. You need a mri and a GOOD spine doc to read it so you know where you stand. Long winded reply but I been there so I hope it helps.
