Hi, thanks for writing to HCM. This is just to let you know that you may not be having a disc herniation at L4 level at the time of your surgery. But, there is a possibility that you might have developed it afterwards resulting in compression of the nerve and causing you leg pain and back pain. The initial management of your problem will be as follows - - Usually 1-2 days of bed rest will calm severe back pain. Do not stay off your feet for longer, though. - Maintain optimum body weight,if you are obese - Avoid lifting heavy weights as it imparts more strain on your back - Change your daily activities so that you avoid movements that can cause further pain, especially bending forward and lifting as it will worsen the disc protrusion. if you want to bend forwards, do it with your hips and knees flexed. - Use a lumbosacral back support to stabilize your spinal muscles - Intermittent pelvic traction might be helpful to cause a regression of the protruded disc - After the initial pain has subsided, remedial exercises to strengthen the spine are very important to restore normal spinal movements and muscle strength. The main aim of exercise is to encourage mobility, reduce muscle spasm, prevent further deterioration in the muscles and speed recovery. - Use analgesics like advil or aleve and muscle relaxants to relieve pain and muscle spasm, as needed. Vitamin B12 supplements & Pregabalin may be helpful in controlling the neuropathic pain. Hope this information is helpful. Good day