Hi, thanks for answering, Unfortunately how these things work. There's the garden variety AKA Off the Rack cases. And then those that don't necessarily fit the existing mold. I unfortunately have had to spend over 1 1/2 years studying and learning about a similar situation. So I'll share my opinion as well as a request. Like you think generally with a lumbar compression it would be one side or the other. As one side has shrunk or began to compress the nerve root more on either side. With mild to very severe pain in the affected area. So given your symptoms I would assume your neurologist. Would have told you it's a peripheral neuropathy and that's it. Honestly that's where His interest is, now he's got a captive audience. And you have to keep returning every 4 to 5 months to follow up etc. The old saying is Drs want to prescribe medications, Surgeons wanna cut and Neurologists want to treat neuropathies etc. So I believe you received an honest opinion. And while it may not seem great, it actually could be... I'd recommend seeing a Back Dr. not a surgeon. He should be able to examine you as well as order a CT scan or MRI. If they won't do the MRI, be a Little Insistent at least that they do the CT scan. Their alot less expensive than MRI's. Not that getting the MRI should be a problem, but if for some reason it is. That will give you a little better understanding to what is going on. And while exercise is not pleasant, at least not to me... It seems as though your pretty early as to your condition. So you should be able to do exercises for your core. As well as exercises focusing on L5 S1 muscles. To try and build those and relieve some of the pressure on your spine. Which may help with the nerve compression. Here's hoping. Now my request, could you possibly share your Neurologists name and city he practices in, I may have to contact him to review my stuff in the future... Thanks