Sorry for the late response. I've had two bouts of sciatica, once in each leg. Your symptoms sound like sciatica. What have you done since, what was recommended? I hope you feel better. I know what the pain from sciatica is like.

Sounds like you are active in the gym - excellent! Strong core muscles protect the lumbar spine, and Pilates is great for the core. Your sciatica may resolve w/o surgery if it is a bulging, versus ruptured, disc.

I did have laminotomies from S1 through L4. Basically, a hole is drilled in the back of each vertebra making more room for the sciatic nerve. Because bone surrounds the hole, the strength of the vertebrae are not compromised.

Wishing you the best,

Joe