Bob, what ever it's worth. I have 2 ruptured disc
between L-3and L-4 also L-4and L-5. It happened 15 yrs ago. At the time I was ready to go under the scalpel and remove the disc. Doc said to wait and see if the nerves would re-align and that's what I did. Haven't had trouble since. Being a contractor I met Dr. Gottleib who is a renowned surgeon in Yakima. He let me know that 80% of back surgery is not necessary. What it's worth.
I hope you have a 2nd opinion. Jim Marquis