L5-s1 protrusion on dec mri. awoke wed with severe low back pain that diminishes with activity and returns with rest. disc issue? pain in l leg also.

Disc vs OA: You are describing arthritic facet pain & pain referred to the lower limb. Nerve pain is usually not assoc. w/ relief from exercise and worsening with rest. Usually, a disc problem is the reverse. A positive MRI is only part of a diagnosis for Herniated Nucleus Puplosis. Nerve studies will prove whether the MRI finding is symptomatic or a red herring. If it is facet arthritis seek an RFA.