u/Expert_Entrance_2831

On June 13, 2025, I suddenly couldn’t walk due to the pain in my lower back. I was having muscle spasms that made me collapse. I went to urgent care and got medication to hold me over until I saw the orthopedist. The ortho immediately sent me to PT based on my symptoms. PT made my pain significantly worse. I got an MRI that showed L4 L5 herniation as well as facet and ligmentum flavum hypertrophy resulting in severe central canal stenosis. Moderate disc degeneration at l4 l5. Bone marrow edema. I wasn’t a fan of the ortho so I got a second opinion from a neurologist. I’ve had two epidural injections with little to no relief. I actually had a bad flare up after the first injection. I’ve had foot numbness on and off but constant, deep aching back pain. Rolling over in bed hurts, bending hurts, twisting hurts. I’m constantly in pain. My doctor wants to talk about microdiscectomy. From what I’m reading, my pain seems more mechanical than disc related. What do you think? I’m only 27 and am fearful of surgery.