I just got my MRI summary back today with the following results:
L1-2 There is a mild generalized narrowing of the intervertebral disc
L2-3 Normal
L3-4 Normal
L4-5 There is a minimal narrowing of the intervertebral disc. There is very small central disc herniatiion, slightly eccentric to the left. This is of the protrusion type. It does not appear to be causing any nerve root compression.
L5-S1 There is a central disc herniatiion, protrusion type, which is small to moderate in size. It does appear to extend to contact the medial aspect of the S1 roots bilaterally, but no frank lesions are seen
Like Matt D. I've had my share of back problems. I've had 4 back surgeries, the last in January. First get some Lumber Steroid Injections (LSI) from a good anaesthesiologist. They don't always work for some people but they work for the majority. If the LSI work, don't get stupid and start going crazy on the amout of weight you pile on. Remember you HAVE a herniation, just because the LSI calmed the nerves doesn't mean your herniation went away. Since you have a herniation you're prone to have a full blown rupture. Once you rupture it, your're screwed. You're gonna have to get cut, the operation isn't bad, and neither is the recovery, but it increases substantially that you will blow it again, especially if you lift.
My leggs have definitely taken a back seat when going heavy. You just have to make a choice, lift heavy and you might not blow it out and see greater gains than you would if you used moderate weight. But if you do blow it out you're setting yourself back months. IMO, if you're not a professional BB, it's not worth it.
Good Luck