 [ Symptoms ] what is the reason for delayed periods after having protected sex [ Disease ] frequently the decision regarding whether or not to have spinal surgery is related more to symptoms than to clinical findings for instance one person may have pain and loss of range of motion with very little disc compression this situation might lead to surgery another person may tolerate much more disc compression and avoid surgery if i were you i would go into my appointment prepared to discuss how my back problems were affecting my activities of daily living pain level and general functionality i would also get my surgeon is opinion about the clinical findings in terms of whether permanent nerve damage or injury to the spinal cord proper could occur from the disc compression you already have it is great to hear you are gathering as much information as possible in advance of your surgery consult being wel informed will help you and your surgeon make a decision together that is right for your needs at this time i wish you all the best