[annapurna]

Diagnosing the condition of the disks is simple, facet condition is harder to figure out, and confirming the actual source(s) of pain and disability is extremely hard. As a quick example ,Dr. Zeegers once showed an MRI of a mystery patient with a bone on bone, dessicated disk and one above it with a mild bulge then proceeded to explain that the mild bulge was actually what was causing the patient the pain he/she noticed. Discograms and/or diagnostic injections are the general route even though they aren't pleasant. They aren't mandatory if it's obvious in your case but know that obvious isn't always.

Don't be surprised if you get a recommendation for a hybrid fusion at L5S1 and ADR at L4/5. You might want to read up on that as well so you know the pros and cons.