[FranklySir]

Phil,

+ 1 on TBI

Having done both C and L I can say in both cases I would and did wait. My Lumbar was an issue for a really long time. I had no choices left in the end since I had Cauda Equina. The Cervical was not a choice either since I was losing the ability to swallow and massive muscle loss down both arms.

My opinion none of this should be taken lightly. Pain in my opinion shouldn't be the only indicator to do anything but obviously if it destroying you then yes.

Your question regarding L5S1. Well mine was gone and almost naturally fused. If I needed 5S1 done I would not have done ADR there. Thats just me. THe mechanics of that location anecdotally just doesn't make sense. It seems that most that have issues with ADR are at that level. I very much feel that the perfect candidate must be chosen for ADR at 5S1. Any contraindications IMHO should steer you away from that. IMHO and IME avoid that area at all costs. My experience was 17-18 years from the first injury there. I really dont think thats what caused the higher levels for me especially now that there are 2 ADR's above and no issues (for now) at all.

Choose wisely.

Frank