Need advice from those who've had back surgery or had it recommended and took alternative measures, along with any Tampa doctor recommendations, questions should ask, etc would be great. Been dealing with pain in lower back and sciatic nerve in leg for over 6 mo. Worked with chiropractor/exercises for 3 mo then stated seeing doc and tried several meds for 3 mo, nothing really worked just caused weight gain. :( Just did MRI and first opinion said I'm in 3% of cases where recommending surgery. I want to see 2 more specialists for other opinions and options (one appt made w Dr John Glass w FL Orthopedic). But I saw MRI and looks bad, one of herniated discs is bulging 9mm pressing right into spine- no wonder in so much pain! Please prayer for guidance, as surgery is last thing I want to do but on flip side don't want to get worse and cause permanent nerve,muscle, etc damage...