Liz, I agree with you that surgery is the last thing we want to consider. I'm able to manage my back pretty well but Alan's back is really limiting his activities at this point. He's a handball player and if he plays, can barely walk the next day. Not good. I'm afraid he is very close to having to make a decision about surgery. Trish, do you mind telling us about your situation? My father had back surgery which didn't work for him (but he had many extenuating circumstances that don't apply to a younger person). It always helps to learn from the experience of others!