Gary
If your disc problems are in the lower back region check into lower lumbar discectomy before getting into a major surgical procedure. I had a herniated disc fixed using this procedure and am now back to normal after 10 years of pain! I was walking the day after surgery, and the pain shooting down my leg has not been back yet. If your looking for a referral here it is - Dr. Watkins @ (323)442-5300. He has operated on numerous professional athletes in the NFL, NHL, etc. I traveled from Michigan to see him in LA, California and would do it again. Insurance covered all medical bills and I picked up the travel costs. The operation takes about 2 hours. A small incision is made in your back and a knive and probe do the rest to cut out just the piece of the disc that is pinching the nerve. Good Luck and don't ever give up!