Question
Doctor Ryan in 2004 I was injured in combat.  I had problems with bowel control and both legs going numb. I had 2 disk that were ruptured and some damage to the vertebra. I have read some of your answers and now I am worried that I made a mistake.  Surgery was a success but I now I have problems with the L3.  Did I make a mistake going with surgery?

Answer
Since I am not a physician or surgeon, I can't say whether your surgery was a mistake or not.  I have seen people do well and I have seen people continue to have trouble following surgery.  Like most things, spinal cord problems are very unique to the individual.  I'm sure that your physician made the best decision in your case according to your X-rays and function.  

Having said that, I would recommend seeking some physical therapy to work with the L3 issue before moving to another surgery.  As you can tell from reading my answers, I always lean toward the least invasive treatments prior to surgery.  There is no such thing as 'minor' surgery in my opinion.  It's best to try other therapies first.

Thanks for your question, Dean.  I hope that my answer reduces your worries.