ljp,
You would be wise to stop any intense exercise and just walk until you know more. Find a good physical therapist to develop a core rehab routine if you are trying to avoid surgery. I also had "mild" symptoms if there is such a thing. The surgeon said I had a splayed or widened conjoined tendon.
Also, keep in mind that some of the specialists have better diagnostic MRI's and ultrasound equipment -- like Dr. Meyers and Dr. Muschaweck. They are able to detect things that others are not.