Disc Problem?

  I am a 40 year old female.
  I have received an MRI report that stated that I had a small bulge located at L5/C1.  It can only be seen on the sagittal view.  I have also received an EMG report that states spontaneous activity and mildly neurogenic recruitment patterns were seenin bilateral gastrocnemius, more pronounced on the left.  Spontaneous activity was also abserved in bilateral L5S1 paraspinal muscles.  Increased insertional activity with runs of CRDs were noted in the L3/4 paraspinals.  This is an abnormal study demonstrating bilateral lumbosacral radiculopathies, predominantly on the left.
  I was undergoing physical therapy for post ACM1 surgery.  I have always had pain in my back, but chose to ignore this due to more pressing problems having to do with my Chiari.  While undergoing physical therapy, I started experiencing massive pain in my back, radiating to my legs.  The bottoms of my feet felt like there were needles in them and very painful.  
  As I progressed further and further with my therapy...I was having more and more problems walking.  I eventually was told to stop therapy and the aforementioned tests were performed.  I had to lay down for almost a week to get my back to allow me to walk with a level 5 pain max.  Sitting is especially painful also.
  Do you have any recommendations?  
  Thank you for your time and consideration in this painful matter.
  Nancee

[CCF Neuro[P] MD RPS]

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Dear Nancee:
Sorry to hear about your back and leg problem.  Your symptoms are pointing to your disc problem at L5/S1.  The EMG would also suggest that this is where your problem lies.  If we could tell you the etiology of the disc problem it would be easy to tell you what to do.  Since you are young degeneration is likely not the cause unless the MRI suggested this and what I am hearing is not degeneration from you.  No arthritis mentioned, no structural defect, etc.  So, most of the suggestions are generic.  Initial rest to allow the nerves to heal, then slow vigorous therapy.  
I would probably see a good neurologist and try to investigate why your having the lower back problem.  Is it you gait? leg length difference? poor sitting/standing habits etc?  
I hope that your back problem resolves itself soon.  Sorry that I couldn't be more help.
Sincerely,
CCF Neuro[P] MD