[annapurna]

Rich knows far more about the non-surgical techniques than I do. Stem cell research is something Laura and I've investigated quite a bit for her knee problems. I doubt that it would help you because youre advanced enough to show schlerotic changes, far beyond the current state where stem cell work can add in repairing soft tissue and rewatering a dehydrated disk. Beyond that Rich will have to weigh in. One point to consider, though, is a mix of surgical and non-surgical. You might be able to "fix" the immediate problem with a surgical approach only to realize the rest of your system is messed up and requires non-surgical help to assist your recovery and get you back into shape.

Other than the surgical options we've discussed, there is ADR and facet replacement. This is being done but only a few docs, Brazil mostly if I remember correctly. It's real cutting edge stuff so the risks are huge. With that in mind, you really need to be clear on how you'd deal witha failed surgery before you attempt this route.