Lumbar Discectomy
Lumbar discectomy is a surgical procedure to remove part of a herniated disc in the lower back that is pressing on a nerve root.
Symptoms
- Lower back pain
- Sciatica or radiating leg pain
- Numbness or tingling in the legs
- Muscle weakness in the lower extremities
Causes & Risk Factors
- Herniated lumbar disc
- Repetitive strain or trauma to the spine
- Obesity or sedentary lifestyle
- Degenerative disc disease
Diagnosis
- MRI of the lumbar spine
- Straight leg raise test
- Neurological exam
- CT scan if MRI is inconclusive
Effective Treatment Options
- Lumbar microdiscectomy surgery
- Pain management post-op
- Physical therapy to improve spine flexibility
- Activity modification during recovery
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to recover from lumbar discectomy?
Most patients recover in 4–6 weeks with proper rehabilitation.
Can lumbar discectomy prevent future disc problems?
It relieves current symptoms but maintaining spinal health is essential to prevent recurrence.
