According to the symptoms you reported (lower left back pain that spreads to the legs and history of previous disc prolapse) you might be experiencing a spinal problem. Whether you have repeated a disc prolapse again or not, cannot be determined without an additional examination.


Disc prolapse is a condition in which the intervertebral disc, which is located between two close vertebrae, is damaged (usually by a degenerative process or exposure to excessive forces). The intervertebral disc is divided into two parts, the outer part which is more solid and the middle part which is softer. When the outer solid ring cracks, part of the middle soft tissue tends to exit out of the vertebra. Then it puts pressure on the surrounding tissues including the nerves that leave the spinal column and the spine itself.


The excessive pressure causes pain which is sensed as existing along the whole nerve. When the disc prolapse occurs in the lumbar region, the sciatic nerve might be affected, thus causing pain along the inner side of the thigh all the way to the ankle.


You might want to visit an orthopedist to check if repetitive disc prolapse has occurred or just a misalignment of the vertebrae is present.


Visualization methods such as X-rays, computer tomography, and MRIs might be needed to distinguish between the possible causes. Depending on the cause and the severity of the condition, physical therapy or even surgery might be recommended by the orthopedist.