The L5 nerve root typically supplies the big toe elevator (EHL) and the foot elevator (tibias anterior-drop foot). This nerve does not service the gastric/soleus group (calf raises-tip toeing).
Chronic radiculopathy or irreversible nerve injury cannot be fully known in a short period of time. This is why decompression of the nerve in the early period is important. Even if the decompression is late, there is still a chance of symptom improvement (pain and paresthesias) even if the nerve is chronically injured. Surgery should be sooner than later if there is motor weakness present.
Dr. Corenman