I have had low back pain for approximately 4 months, severe at times and with episodic radiation down my left leg. Chiropractic care yielded minimal relief as did massage therapy. My pain level is never less than 3-4, and at its worst, can be an 8. I recently underwent a CT scan of my lumbar spine (I could not have an MRI due to a previous ACDF at C5-C6 with hardware implantation). The CT revealed a central disc protrusion with thecal sac indentation. Is surgery necessary? What are my treatment options? My lifestyle, which includes hiking, hunting, ATV riding, etc. does not lend itself to having constant back pain.