Hi Suzanne ,
I had lumbar fusion L2 to S1
when I was 60 . Recovery was about 18 months to say I really felt well. I went on to be very active. doing everything I wanted ,cycling , aerobics , weight lifting etc. for many years after that. And now I am 79 and have mm, diagnosed 8 months ago. I dont regret that surgery , gave me many years to be very active.
Good luck in your decision.
I wish you well. Trust God in your decision.

Consult with an Interventional Radiologist. They see the world very differently. In 2021, when my Spine Specialist wanted to do Surgery with Plates, Screws and Fusion, my Interventional Radiologist did a very simple Kyphoplasty that completely resolved my fractured L4 as an Outpatient procedure.

I have no pain and I’m able to golf and exercise with ease.

I have a friend that had bone fusion surgery and has remained in pain for years.

Leslie; Good!!! Here I am fretting that my tests have been cut down to every 6 months. You give me some hope. I've been off treatment since 2021;my choice. ...long story ( in my profile). But 2010...I'm impressed. My life goal post is 102 and ambulatory. I'm working on it in my own way and fingers crossed
More power to you Leslie ✊🙂

Thank you so much for the encouragement! I so appreciate your taking the time to share your journey. I know it will be a challenge, but we are warriors!!!

I had L1-L4 fused as a plasmacytoma destroyed my L3. Resting in bed is a priority as you’ve just put your body through a traumatic event. Finding a comfortable sleeping position is hard. You measure recovery by 6 weeks, 3 months, 6 months and 1 year intervals. By 6 weeks you’re up and walking around the kitchen island and getting your strength back up. Somewhat like learning to walk again. By 3 months you’ve ventured outside and are walking around the block. By 6 months going for a mile walk becomes easier. At 8 months you feel like you’re moving more normally. By a year, you feel almost back to normal.