I've talked with four people I know who had successful fusions that didn't have to wear the collar. Their doctors didn't believe in them. Mine does. I've worn one before and I lost all flexibility with my muscles. How can I explain to my doctor that the negative impact is worse than any help they offer? My first fusion failed (with bone morphogenetic protein) and I wore the collar for two solid weeks! Not sure if he'll use my own bone or not this time. (Different doctor this time- Thank God! -since no one noticed the fusion failed for over a year until I changed doctors – despite much pain). Any suggestions about the collar and do you know a good lawyer? haha Thanks!