Herniationl4, l5 i know if the nerve is compressed it could cause nerve damage how long before it could caused permanent nerve damage if untreatedthnks?

Herniated Disc: Mechanical compression is one of the ways you can get nerve injury which can involve the insulation or wires or the nerve. Most people with herniated disc do not even know they have it. If you pain is into your buttock or down your leg below the knee and your have tingling or numbness or weakness the nerve may already be involved. Many things can help such as medications, exercises, injections.

Nerve damage: Great question... It's very important to treat pain and to prevent nerve damage. There are multiple ways to treat a herniated disc. They include: weight loss, physical therapy, chiropractic care, disc decompression (traction), epidural injections, intradiscal procedures, and surgery. An EMG is the best test to see if you have old or active nerve damage (if so- you need surgery).

Uncertain time: It depends on the severity of the herniation and speed with which herniation occurs. It could occur instantly from injury or could take years in case of mild physical stress on the low back.