[BarbMazz]

Al, you know I can feel your pain! L5 is one of the places I have problems, so I think I know exactly how that pain down your leg feels.

If the "nerve block" you're talking about is an epidural that contains steroidal anti-inflammatory medications, then you may be in for some good relief. My doc also Rx'ed some pain meds to be used when absolutely needed, and a muscle relaxer, Skelaxin.

My doc does them outpatient, and it literally takes about 3 minutes. You do feel some weird "pressure" while they're injecting the stuff into your spinal column. My doc requires that I then lay flat for 8hrs at home afterward so the medication stays in the area it's meant for, and so I don't get a headache. He does them in series of 3. I did have to have an "emergency" 4th epidural after my trip to Spain earlier this year.

My doctor will repeat these epidurals at 6mo intervals, if they're needed. My doc is a "Physiatrist", which is a pain management specialist. It is his belief that surgery is NOT warranted for a vast majority of these types of spinal issues. In extreme cases of loss of bladder or bowel function it may be necessary, but for back pain and neuropathy into the buttocks/legs most often can be managed with some physical therapy and medications. Physical therapy I've had are heat compressions, traction, and electro-massage.

These epidurals worked extremely well for me. I was worried after my trip when the pain was SO bad, but the 4th one knocked it back down to almost 0.

Let me know if you have any questions. I hope you don't have to have a third surgery! I'm with ya, dood!