I've had two laminectomy's on L5(first one half, then the other). I feel the problem is that Dr's fix the problem, but don't tell you how to prevent it. You don't need to do fusion yet! Just prior to my second, I got Finally found a good Chiropractor. It has made all the difference in the world! My hips were so off that since my 20's I had been getting my pants hemmed two different lengths(I'm 42 now). I am completely balanced now. I go to water aerobics 3 times a week for the past three years now. I'm the youngest by 20 years, but who cares. I have also been involved in Pilates since last November. Now it is a daily regimine for me to do stretching....I never want to feel pain like that again. I wish you luck and hopefully some of the tips help...off to water aerobics!