Like Lew, I had back surgery in the late 90's... Microdiscectomy... it was done by this guy http://www.ratemds.com/doctor-ratings/949885/Dr-Michael-Ford-Toronto-ON.html
He's the cat's meow! If you can get to see him, he will take care of you.
I feel for yah bud, the spine and everything around it is a major life changer... and after my surgury, I was a new man!
HH