I have constant hip pain and muscle spasms in my thigh and calf with numbness in the outer half of my foot. what other tests besides mri should happen?

Nerve damage: What your experiencing is nerve damage. It will or may be permanent if the cause is not corrected. Nerve conduction velocity is needed to help determine this. I would get the MRI asap. Then have your physician refer you to a neurosurgeon and neurologist to get further evaluation. A normal MRI and abnormal nerve study may indicate a more severe condition in terms of a demyelinating process.

Phyisical exam: History and physical with your doc more important that plus the MRI should show the s1nerve impingment if present treatment follows diagnosis.

Examination: Firstly a very complete physical exam. Some basic labs, plain (cheaper) x-rays directed at low back & pelvis. An emg/ncv is likely needed, based on information obtained the need for MRI ct or other studies may be determined.