There is a lot to know and prepare for before surgery for chronic pain. Knowing what to expect during the recovery process after surgery can ease anxiety and stress. Only those who have been through the surgery themselves truly understand the experience.

On MyChronicPainTeam, the social network and online support group for those living with chronic pain, members talk about a range of personal experiences and struggles. Surgery is one of the top 10 topics most discussed.

Here are some question-and-answer threads about surgery:

• Has anyone had any experience with laser spine surgery?

• What is the recovery like from back surgery? My doctor wants to do a laminectomy.

• Has anyone had arthroscopic hip surgery?

Here are some conversations about surgery:

• I've found out that the part of my spine that would normally help keep me balanced and keep the rest of my spine in line has disintegrated and the actors say I'll "probably" need surgery.

• The minor surgery went well, he flushed my knee then put in pain meds and solution. I can actually take the stairs and go down in a run.

• Have had three surgeries for spinal stimulation for peripheral neuropathy and they didn't work.

Can you relate?

Have another topic you'd like to discuss or explore? Go to MyChronicPainTeam today and start the conversation. You'll be surprised just how many others may share similar stories.

Feel free to ask a question here.