Conversation: The conversation between human and AI assistant.
[|Human|] After 1 1/2 years of constant chronic back pain, sciatica etc. and trying any and all conservative treatments, my Dr has reccomended a lumbar spinal fusion of L-5 and S-1. I m 41 yrs old and work as a Cabinet maker.... Lots of heavy lifting, repetitive bending etc. I m wondering with a successful surgery will I ever be able to return back to that type of work again? Thanks Jon
[|AI|]  Dear patient First we have to search for the cause of chronic back pain which might be 1. Mechanical instability 2. Disc prolapse.  Accurate diagnosis is must for proper treatment.  I would advise MRI of lumbosacral spine with screening of whole spine.  It shows discs, nerves and even bones. If MRI is showing disc prolapse with instability discectomy and fusion may be the treatment. After surgery there is loss of movements at fused levels. But there will be complete relief of symptoms and you we be able to do all your activities. Forward bending should be avoided. So if MRI is not done get it done and visit expert spine surgeon with report.