:'( I am 43 years old and have had serious increasing back pain for about 3 years now. It turns out that I have an extra "L6 vertebrae" which is the likely cause. In the last 6 months my hips have begun to hurt almost as bad and as often as my back does. Which is the best course of action? The pain pills and steroid injections at the L6 site simultaneously, or the surgical option. I am a musician who is in the midst of a deal that will have me likely trying to tour Europe within the next 18 months, and I am REALLY worried about how this is going to affect my ability to do my chosen work. This is a serious impediment to me, and I am really worried that my quality of life is going to continue to deteriorate rather than get better. Any ideas or thoughts for the best solution within that period of time???. Any help would be appreciated!!!

Thanks, Calie Cox.