Your MRI shows an L5–S1 diffuse disc bulge with a left foraminal disc protrusion and annular tear, causing mild spinal canal narrowing and left neural foraminal narrowing with contact of the left nerve roots. This can explain your low back pain radiating to the thigh/leg (sciatica). The cervical screening also shows mild multilevel disc bulges (C4/5 to C7/D1), which may contribute to your neck pain, but the MRI does not suggest severe cervical cord compression.
At present, since your symptoms have been present for only 2 weeks, the first line of treatment is usually conservative unless there is significant muscle weakness, bowel/bladder symptoms, or progressive neurological deficits.
Next Steps
Please consult an Orthopaedic Spine Surgeon for a detailed neurological examination. Most patients improve with a combination of medications, activity modification, and supervised physiotherapy over the next few weeks. Avoid prolonged sitting, forward bending, heavy lifting, and sudden twisting movements. If pain persists despite adequate treatment or if neurological symptoms worsen, additional interventions such as a selective nerve root block or surgery may be considered depending on your clinical findings.
If you would like a detailed review of your MRI and symptoms, you may book an online consultation with me through Practo. I can review your reports and guide you regarding the most appropriate treatment plan and whether surgery is necessary.
Health Tips
Seek urgent medical attention if you develop progressive weakness in the legs, numbness in the saddle area, or loss of bowel or bladder control, as these require immediate evaluation. Most lumbar disc bulges improve without surgery when managed appropriately.