<s>[INST] I have considerable lower back pain, also numbness in left buttocks and down left leg, girdling at the upper thigh.  MRI shows "Small protrusiton of L3-4 interv. disc on left far laterally with annular fissuring fesulting in mild left neural foraminal narrowing with slight posterolateral displacement of the exiting l3 nerve root."  Other mild bulges L4-5 w/ fissuring, and mild buldge  L5-S1. 1) does this explain symptoms 2) I have a plane/car trip in 2 days lasting 8 hrs, then other travel.  Will this be harmful? [/INST] Hi, Your MRI report does explain your symptoms. Travelling is possible providing you take certain measures to make your journey as comfortable as possible. I suggest you ensure you take adequate supplies of your painkillers. When on the plane take every opportunity to move about the cabin to avoid sitting in the same position for too long. Likewise, when travelling by car, try to make frequent stops, so you can take a short walk to move your legs.  Chat Doctor.  </s>