i had the nucleoplasty and had no help, in fact it was the worst pain i've ever been through. what were your symptoms after the procedure. i have centralized lower back pain as well. my hip and buttocks hurt also. i don't have leg pain though. would the idet be an option before fusion for severe back pain. my discogram showed a leak l4-l5. i wonder if something went wrong in my procedure as well. it's been 5 weeks and the only relief is the muscle spasms aren't as severe. any advise. i'm so frustrated. jason