Sorry, Fresh Fluff, to hear you're going through so much pain. I've spent most of my adult life in physical therapy -- I'm religious with it! -- and it has taught me the recuperative powers of the human body. Of course nothing is ever going to be perfect... but I've learned to redefine pain in very beneficial ways. A year ago I fell and herniated a lower disc and I thought this time it was the end -- the pain was unbelievable -- and yet with small increments of movements and working with a great physical therapist ('great' is the one who works for you... they're all different!) it's now 9 months later and progress has been made. I'm in my late 60s and I know that it would have been quicker had I been younger... but 2nd, 3rd and 4rth opinions are good... and a great physical therapist is the best. I'll keep you in my thoughts!!!