Jennifer
                    
                    
                    
                    
                    
                    
                    
                        
                        
                        I had a L5 L6 fusion done in December 1998.   I was 25 at the time.  The pain and numbness in my arm was gone immediately after the surgery.  I still have some muscle weekness, but continue on a home exercise program daily.  The surgery was well worth it for me.  The pain was gone immediately.