Condition guide
Lumbar Discectomy - Overview
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.
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