Hi Mr McLeod Thank you for your question to HCM. The symptoms typically associated with damage to nerves in L5-S1 region of spine are pain radiating along the leg, numbness along top of foot close to the big toe and/or tingling. Weakness of pushing the foot down towards ground comes from S1 nerve problems whereas inability or weakness to move big toe and sometimes foot drop can come from damage to L5 nerve. Possible losses of function from damage to nerves at L5-S1 are weakness of downward movement of foot that can cause difficulty in walking, weakness of toes and rarely foot drop. One of the serious consequences may be loss of bladder and bowel control. If this happens surgery is urgently indicated. If pain is your only symptom you can wait. If weakness is progressive or bladder bowel symptoms are present surgery is indicated. Hope this is helpful. Let me know if I can be of further help to you.