MRI scan shows two disk degeneration in my lumbar. L5/S1 is bone to bone and L4/L5 has a tear and has lost most of its nucleus. Doctor says I can wait until the pain is unmanageable or have fusion surgery at both levels. Is waiting dangerous and likely to cause more damage. I am on gabapentin and hydrocodone 10mg right now. I have had back paid off and on for at least 15 years lasting for 4-6 weeks at a time. This time it lasted 5 months and I went to have another MRI. I wasn't told that my back was leading to this but I also didn't take care of my back the way I should have. I am a very active 37 year old with 3 children (13,11, and 7). I am 6' 1" 240 pounds. I liked to play basketball, golf, and bowl on leagues. Now I find it hard or impossible to do these things. Any information would be greatly appreciated. Thank you so very much.