I had fusion in the lumbar area

I tried everything else first, losing weight, PT, acupuncture, traction. Finally I said yes to the surgery.

I did have a brace, it was somewhat bulky and is worn over clothes but easy to take off and put on. They custom fitted it right before surgery and it has wide Velcro straps and then you tightened it with knobs.

I suggest either Velcro closer shoes or elastic shoe strings you don't need to tie

A long shoe horn

A couple grabber thingys so you can place them in different areas

Don't recall its name but it's a half tubal thing with ropes on each side to put socks and footies on with

Lots and lots of patience

And of course listen to what they say. Keep up the PT after surgery