I am a 54 female with degenerative disease since 1997. Last july (2004) I fell and got a compound fracture in l3. Since then the pain in my back has gotten worse. I have had three mris since 1997 and the two recent ones in 2002 and 2004 showed l4 and l5 have deteriating discs along with the fracture on l3 which is protruding the disc. I have been through physical therapy and the exercises they gave me doesn't help. I have been to so many therapies I can't count them on my fingers from both hands. I have seen a surgeon but am going in to get a second opinion this coming friday dec. 3. The first surgeon said I was a good candidate for the new artificial disc that won't be available until after the first of the year. Has anyone had this new disc done and what is the healing period in time wise? I know of a woman that works in construction and she had it done through the university washington hospital as what they call a test person, and she said it was well worth the trouble and now she is pain free. She had all the symptoms that I am having now. It has really messed up my life, home style and sex. I am taking vicodin but it doesn't help all the time and taking muscle relaxers for the severe muscle spasms. Anyone have any suggestions? Chiropractors won't help with this situation and I have tried accupuncture and the massage therapy feels great but my insurance doesn't pay for that so doing that three times a week adds up. Please help!!!!!!