Herniated Disc with Pain in Leg

I am 21 years old and have suffered from back pain 4-5 times since childhood which remained for 3-4 days. Last time it occurred in May 2011 and at that time it exaggerated and ran on the left side leg from Hips to down. Back became normal but leg pain continued, it looks like stretching some nerve of leg. Tolerable but some times acute.

MRI report gave following impressions:-
1) Large posterior herniation inferior migration L4-L5 disc severely compressing the thecal sac and nerve roots of lumbo sacral plexus.
2) Diffuse disc bulge and central protrusion L5-S1 compressing thecal sac and descending nerve roots

Dr. advised back surgery, but since I am busy for a month more so wanted to know what steps I should take to ensure no or less pain till then as I am severely suffering pain and want to avoid pain killers till then. By steps I mean exercise and all.
Please let me know anything you know about this problem.

[S. Kaul, MD]

Hi there!

Meanwhile you could try rest, avoiding/ strain around the lower back with anti-inflammatory and/ or pain medications. If the pain is severe temporary nerve blocks may be effective in relieving the pain as well.
Hope this is helpful.

Take care!