Shira
I'm actually 21 and have had 2 what I guess would be called minor surgeries on that area for herniated disks and spinal stenosis. I refused fusion bec. I too want disc replacements for my degenerative disk disease. As of yet, it is not available. However, I did find the other surgeries helpful and with fairly quick recoveries. It's no guarantee, but they do get you back on your feet and off pain killers, at least untill the next major episode. I hope this is helpful.