Hi, Thanks for writing in. The discs at levels L 3 - L 4, L 4 - L 5 and L 5 - S 1 show probable age related disc degenerative change with a bony spur at L 5 region. The nerve roots at L 5 level is getting pinched and therefore the pain. This is mainly sue to the degenerative discs at that level causing pressure on the nerves on possibly the left side along the foramen though which they pass. Initially physiotherapy, avoiding excessive physical activities and taking over the counter pain killers help. If you do not get sufficient pain relief then taking neurogenic pain relievers and oipoid medications might be required and these are prescription medications. If pain persists with more than a year even with adequate medications then the pinched nerve must be released with small surgical procedures. Laser assisted techniques are also available in some hospitals and clinics.