[Cynlite]

Mike, I hate to be the bearer of bad news but, I'll put myself out there anyway. If you go through the post surgery forum, you will find stories of many unfortunate patients of Dr. Bertagnoli. He doesn't have a great record of being there for his patients that have had a bad experience after him doing surgery and there are quite a few of them unfortunately. Of course, there are some patients that have done well but, it's sort of 50/50 from what I read. Also, since he helped to engineer the Prodisc, he has a vested interest in using it. Both the Activ L and the M6-L are better discs IMO. These are just my opinions from spending many, many hours reading the forums so, I do recommend that you do your own research. Talk to Dr. Zeegers about the Prodisc. One of the issues with it is that it has a large keel design which is not optimal and has later been perfected on by other manufacturers. (The problem with a large keel is that if it doesn't work out, you can't have it replaced. There is a lot of bone drilling involved. Only fusion and sometimes leaving it in are your only options.) I'm sure Dr. Zeegers will have something to say about it. I don't think he has used that disc in many years and is quite knowledgeable about them. He seems to be a conservative surgeon and an honest man so, I would respect what he has to say. I have been working with him as well.

On your other point about your question about it being a muscular problem, are you seeing a good pain specialist? They can help you to figure this out. I'm using an inversion table which is helping my lower back. I know this is not for everyone though. We are all so unique when it comes to spinal problems. Best to get a pain specialist to guide you. Traction can make things worse for some. Good luck to you!