[bandier]

I process this stuff for a living. I didn't read the whole thread here. Since you had the MRI done, now you need to see either a spine-trained orthopedist or a neurosurgeon (not a neurologist), they will tell you what's next for your treatment. Both of these specialist will do the trick. The ortho has to be spine trained as there are some that aren't but will evaluate you and say they are qualified. The next step is probably pain management although the injections typically only last a month or so. If that doesn't do the trick, if the herniation and symptoms are bad enough, surgery could be next.