Pain generation?

The DR says that the pain in my leg rarely goes into the back of the thigh. However I do in fact have rear and frontal thigh pain. Seems that something is wrong with the L2 joint and nerves. nothing really jumped out from the multiple tests. MRI, CT/Mylogram or Xrays. But something is generating pain, both front and rear of my thigh.
Does anyone know what a foraminotomy is and could it help to relieve pressure on the nerves? The MRI did not indicate any disc herniation. But could it not show up? I would think the other  scans would have indicated something.
Would a Discogram be conclusive to show the condition of the disc? It would appear that the disc and or something in the joint is damaged.
any suggestions?

[kittyluv1]

A foraminotomy is a surgical procedure to remove any bony outgrowths that are narrowing the neural foramen through which the spinal nerve roots travel.  It is indicated when there is identified nerve compression due to these bone spurs.  It should be visualized on MRI.
A discogram is usually done to determine if the discs are indeed the pain generator.
It is a very good diagnostic tool when current treatment methods have failed to provide results.
The results of your previous diagnostic testing are not pin-pointing the source of your current pain.  Any further diagnostic testing would be dependent on whether your physician is agreeable and if he determines that additional tests are indicated.
Disc herniations generally do show on MRI as the disc itself can be visualized quite accurately unless there is significant dessication (desiccation) which has altered or obliterated the disc entirely.   (With severe dessication (desiccation) of the intervertebral discs the vertebrae can start to fuse together -- which would be identified on MRI)
If your doctor feels he has done all of the appropriate tests  and the current treatment options have not produced significant results, a referral to a pain management specialist might be indicated.  
Keep us posted of your progress ----