I have sciatica in my right leg.  In 2011 I had it in my left leg and had surgery, because of nerve compression toward my lower spine.  I had an MRI yesterday because of intense pins-and-needles pain in my right leg.  I saw my PCP today.  He said that there was compression near L5/L6.  I'm having surgery in late May.  My surgeon in 2011 is my surgeon for this one.  I would trust her with my life.  I AM trusting her with my spine, actually.