I would say that if you don't do this, the nerve damage will be permanent. The time limit on permanent nerve damage is 18 months, with some people having it become permanent before that.

So -- it probably is a good idea. However, you have other things to consider too. I hate to recommend surgery because the levels above/below can fail due to surgery. It's called the "Domino effect." They fail because they have to take on more of the load, due to the surgeon having to take part of the disc out. That makes the L3-4 level unable to "hold up" the vertebra like it's supposed to, so the L2-3 vertebra will "sink" which will cause that disc to bulge/herniate and probably cause further problems, i.e pain & potential surgery. You just can't win.

If you didn't have significant symptoms, I wouldn't recommend surgery. But since the leg/foot are REALLY involved, you probably don't have much choice.

I think you should get another opinion from another NEUROSURGEON. Take your films and see what another surgeon has to say. You should ALWAYS get at least 3 opinions before undergoing any surgery. Best of luck & God bless. Hugs, Lee