Fusion and new herniations

[Quietcook]

I have already had multiple spine surgeries.  The last one in 2004 redid the previous fusions and added more levels, so that I am now fused from T-10 down, with two rods and many cages and screws.  The thought was that this was the absolute last spine surgery I'd need and although my recover from this last one was difficult, all the doctors remain amazed with my ability to continue doing almost all the things I did before.  Now, T7-8, T8-9,and T9-10 have herniated into the cord, so more surgery is planned.  Granted, I'm in tremendous pain even with pain patches and oral meds to help and it becomes unbearable when I use my arms a lot, as when washing windows, quilting or working in the flower beds or driving the tractor.  

I'm told that more than the three levels will need to be fused in order to not have fractures of the vertebrae above them.  What scares me the most right now though is that a few days ago, I again had the spike of pain as though my rods were shifting (yes, I've had recent MRI's but before this last change) and now I have new numbness in my feet and toes.  It used to be mild numbness in one leg, but now it is severe and in both feet.

Can this new numbness be associated with the T8-T10 herniations or have I developed a new problem I need to be immediately seeing the doctor about? I'm the caregiver for a parent, so trying to maintain a home and yard while caring for an 86 year old with major medical problems is beginning to take a toll on me while in so much pain.

I'd really appreciate any info you can share and recommendations of things I need to ask my surgeon.