I am 29 years old & have been in the marines for just over 4 years now. I was due to get out in april of '05 but because of my back problems I am on medical hold. I've had these problems for just over 1.5 years, i've gone through all the injections, nerve blocs, physical therapy & lastly a discogram. The discogram was positive for l4-l5 l5-s1. I spoke to a neurosurgeon today who recommended I do the surgery. He said the military only does spinal fusions as the disc replacement isn't approved yet by the military. My biggest questions are about my quality of life after the fusion. Since it is a 2 level fusion, what my ability level would be. Are sports completely out of the question, will I be able to exercise normally...Etc.

Any comments/information would be greatly appreciated.