Welcome Mike. I am also new here, but have already found a wealth of knowledge from other members.

I am 34 and have been dealing with a pretty large extruded disc at L4-5 along with a smaller herniation at the L5-S1. I have been taking a non-surgical route for almost 2 years now.

I am by no means a doctor, but i would highly suggest physical therapy. I think you could really benefit from PT!

HOW did you add that image into your message?

i have also wanted to see other peoples MRI's. I have spent hours on the internet looking for images of other people with similar MRI's -
it is just kind of fascinating to seen that we are not alone. it is so hard for people to understand that you have pain when they can't see it externally. kind of like if they don't see blood or bandages, it is hard for people to understand your pain.

That is what i like about this place thus far. Most people are sensitive and understanding because they also deal with pain...
if you would like to see my "ouchies"- click on the thumbnail...
; )



Again,
Welcome!
Theresa