i have had three laminectomy/microdiskectomy surgeries at the L5-S1 level. I also have a cyrrent herniation at the same level. You are not alone in your pain, as I know that myself and many others live with chronic nerve pain on a daily basis. I would suggest as a first course of action, a cortisone epidural.(i have one tomorrow) Ask your doctor about seeing a physical therapist and massage therapist that specialize in spinal column injuries. With a consevative treatment plan and the proper rest and care, over 75% of all herniations are disolved naturally by the body, requiring no surgical procedures. If you are one of the unlucky ones like myself, than surgery will take care of the problem, but you must be smarter than me, and follow ALL of your aftercare instructions completely. If you allow enough time for your body to recover after surgery, then the chances are extremely good that this will be a onetime event for you.
Take care and listen to what your doctors say. If you don't like what they are telling you, get a second opinion. Your injury can be a very serious one if you do not take proper care of it.
good luck
mrhamilton