To Brace or Not to Brace for Single Level Lumbar Fusion Pilot

This pilot study is exploring whether patients who have had a single-level lumbar spinal fusion surgery (a procedure that joins two vertebrae in the lower back together permanently) actually need to wear a back brace afterward. Bracing after spinal fusion is common, but the evidence for its benefit is limited. Wearing a brace can be uncomfortable, restrict movement, and may not be necessary for everyone. This trial will compare outcomes between patients who are braced and those who are not, with the goal of informing future larger studies. The surgery involved (single-level posterolateral lumbar fusion, from L2 to L5) is used to treat conditions like degenerative disc disease, spondylolisthesis, or spinal instability. Participants will be followed up to track their recovery and outcomes. You may be eligible if: - You are between 18 and 80 years old - You are undergoing a single-level lumbar posterolateral fusion between L2 and L5 - Your life expectancy is greater than 2 years You may NOT be eligible if: - You have had previous lumbar surgery - You have a spinal tumor or cancer - You have documented osteoporosis - You have high-grade (grade 3 or 4) spondylolisthesis Talk to your doctor to see if this trial is right for you.