Herniated Disc Surgery
There are different levels of severity for a herniated disc. Experts always suggest that you undergo all Herniated Disc Treatment options first before considering herniated disc surgery. If you have gone through all the treatment processes and feel that your quality of life has been diminished to nothing and you live life with constant excruciating pain, then surgery will be the next step to take.
Herniated Disc Surgery Procedure
Herniated disc surgery is a procedure known as a disectomy. A disectomy is a when surgeon creates an incision in the back, about 1.0 to 1.5 inches, and removes part of the disc that is pinching the nerve. The surgeon may remove a little more of the damaged disk to prevent any recurrences. The disc surgery is performed with the patient lying on his stomach and takes about 1 to 2 hours while the patient is put under general anesthesia.
Herniated Disc Surgery Recovery Time
Recovery time can take anywhere from 6 to 8 weeks. People who had pain in their legs and fee usually feel an improvement right away after the surgery. There will be back pain after the surgery, but your doctor will prescribe pain medication during the healing process. After the surgery, you will most likely be kept hospitalized for 1 to 2 days. When you are released walking and sitting are encouraged. Exercise, bending, and twisting should NOT be performed for several weeks, or until your doctors says it’s okay.
Herniated Disc Surgery Complications
Possible issues that can come about after herniated disc surgery are infection, spinal fluid leak, bleeding, and herniation of the disc again. Hospitalization and surgery may be required to fix these issues. Most people will not experience these complications. Generally, most people will feel little to no symptoms of what they had prior to the herniated disc surgery and will experience no complications during the recovery time.
11:50 AM on February 3rd, 2012
I’m 36 yrs old, very active and I work out almost daily,I suffered from a pinched nerve on the right side that got to me mid September 2011 and developed extremely fast, in 5 days i could hardly walk straight for a minute without having to sit, yet even when I sit I used to bend over and pull my leg towards me just to relief a bit the pain, during that I did the MRI which showed clearly the herniated disc at L4 L5 level along with the pinched nerve. The doctor after looking at the MRI he immediately recommended the surgery advising that no pain killers would relief or make the pain go away yet medication would have side effects on other parts and the pinched nerve
pain will remain. So, I decided to go under operation which took place on 26 sept 2011, it took almost 3 hours, and 5 hours after that I stood up and walked normally as if it didn’t happen! I followed literary the doctors orders, had 3 weeks sick leave from work, I started walking around 10 to 15 minutes daily after the 4th day then underwent 12 sessions of physiotherapy and now after almost 4 months I’m back to exercising gym, swimming, and jogging, certainly I,m going very easy till complete recovery and I always follow my body as it will tell you when you need to rest. I have no pain but continuous discomfort, the discomfort goes and come but for me the surgery was the optimum choice instead-of all the medications and so, I sometimes feel very little pain in my right leg, but I think after having such, we learn how exactly we should sit, sleep and lift up things in a healthy way, I do wish everyone the best of luck and health and make sure if lucky to choose a reputable doctor. (it’s very important to keep constant weight)
3:59 PM on January 2nd, 2012
I am 70 years old. I have a herniated disc at L4-L5. I have had numerous pain shots
in my spine. Along with 2 ablations (burning the nerves) in the past 30 years, with little to no relief. I have been taking Tramadol (Ultram) for the past 20 years. It Masks the pain enough to allow me to mentally deal with the pain it doesn’t cover. I have talked to a Nuero Surgeon after having an MRI done that clearly showed the Herniation. He basically refused to do the surgery because he could not quarantee me any relief. Shortly after that (1-2 years) I went to see an Orthopedic Surgeon who flatly refused to touch my back. The pain is getting worse to where the pain pills and my mental control are losing the battle. Idon’t
like the feeling I get from the pills (la la land). Any help I can Get would be appreciated. Thanks for listening.
1:39 PM on December 27th, 2011
i have disk due to havey whightlifting in the GYM. Anyway, i have acute low back pain but i don’t have numbness and the other symptoms. However, i would like to have surgery, but i’m afraid of two things:
1. to have disk again after the surgery
2. to stop exercicing (budy building) for more than two months
can anyone please tell me if he/she knows about the surgery?
8:42 AM on December 21st, 2011
Oct 26 i had the day off so was working in yard catching up on raking leaves mowing etc was sitting and eating dinner and was uncomfortable in my leg like it was asleep worked the rest of week and on Sunday i went to ER because my leg and back hurt so much they did a xray said no broken bones gave me a shot an took me off work for a week i went to my family doctor still with alot of pain bout 4 days later and he referred me to a Dr that ordered MRI and referred me to neurosurgeon. When MRI showed herneated L4-L5 disk i was taken off work till Jan 9. I have had 2 edpidurals of cortizone and tried to do phys therepy but was in so much pain it was discontinued after 2 visits. Pain and numbness has gotten worse the whole time. Going to see Neurosurgeon today for first visit.
9:56 AM on November 4th, 2011
I would like to know if you had a disc replacement surgery in your L5 disc and how are you doing now; yrs out?. Are you restricted in your activities?
Hello, I’m a 28yr female that has a Herniated L5 disc since 2005. I have had many many injections and tried every possible alternative thing you could think of and was only able to keep the pain to a low and that is with pain meds. But until I tweaked it doing something active which is often, as I’m a very active person that is on the go. So back in July I had a fun adventurous weekend but ended up really hurting my back as I wasn’t able to bend over. I had never experienced that kind of pain before as I was always able to bend and stretch. I went back to pain management for more injections which helped for two months and just a week ago I woke up not being able to bend over. So I again went back to pain management and the doctor said they can no longer help me and that its time to think surgery….My back doctored and I talked about this before but wanted to postpone it as much as possible. I think it’s time, as I am in so much pain and I don’t want to take the pain meds anymore.
11:41 AM on October 21st, 2011
I am a 36 year old male who just had a l-4 l-5 decompression, laminectamy. Surgery took about two hours. The bulging disk was protruding a lot further than the MRI showed. It was like 1/2 inch to 3/4 inch. Then there were 3 nerves affected. My surgery was at 12:30 Wednesday the 19th,I got home 7:30 p.m. that evening, I felt great till the next morning or I should say the middle of that night. Feeling really sick. I have never been in this much pain in my entire life, I know for a fact that having a child would be a piece of cake.
12:54 AM on November 4th, 2011
@Scott. I appreciate your comments as I am a 48 year old male who has a herniated l-5, s-1 disk and I have had 2 epidurals and for a few weeks the pain was gone, but now it is back and it is mostly in my upper thigh, lower buttocks area.
Would like to avoid surgery and was thinking about accupuncture, but I am doubtful that this will help me. I run, walk and am active.
Appreciate any thoughts.
Many thanks.
1:37 PM on November 4th, 2011
Mike – I did acupuncture for my L5 disc and it did help but you have to be consistent in going. My insurance did not cover so it was all out of pocket.
6:47 AM on October 9th, 2011
Hi,
I am 32 years old and have been suffering with a slipped disc in the L5 position of the back since May 2009. I have seen 6 doctors, had physio with two different physiotherapists which did nothing, had an MRI scan, had 5 nerve block injections in July to try and push the liquid back into the disc and now I am still in constant pain and have to wait until november to see the junior consultant. (cant see the top consultant as it is a 4 year wait to see him!)
When I first saw the junior consultant she advised that if the nerve block injections did not work then surgery was the only option.
I just want to know if anyone can give me some much needed advice as I dont know whether to go for surgery or not. Do I live on drugs the rest of my life and have live in constant pain or do I go the surgical route which could work but then does have high risks.
Apparently where the disc has herniated is extremely difficult to get to as it is behind the spinal cord so to get to it would mean cutting through muscle and bone.. I had been going to work every day and havent taken a day off sick except when my back went last year and I had to be put on valium to be able to move but by doing that I am emotionally and physically shattered.
2:23 AM on October 11th, 2011
I had part of my L5 disc removed on Sept. 29,2011. My doc said there would be a chance of it becoming herniated again since they could not get to a large chunk of the disc. For four days after surgery i felt much better with very little pain and just a bit of soreness from the surgery. On the fifth day I reached to my bedside table for my water and immediately felt the worst pain I have ever felt in my life. I was home alone and had to call 911 for ambulance to come get me.(I live in a rural area of NC so it took a while for them to arrive). I was immediately transferred to hospital and given another MRI which showed the remainder of the disc had blown out like the doctor said. They removed the remainder of the disc and I am now home resting fairly comfortably. I am using minimal painkillers only 5 days removed from surgery. I lived with this pain for years and I can say right now that even with two surgical procedures within the last 12 days I feel so much better. I have a long physical therapy process ahead but I am sorry I waited so long to do the surgery. I look forward to skiing with my kids again this winter and I have the most positive outlook on my health I have had in years. My advice is get surgery asap. I had done epidurals and chiropractic for several years but those things never took my sharp, stabbing pain away. Good luck with your choice and I hope you get better!
2:03 PM on October 11th, 2011
Hi Billy,
Sorry to hear you have had so much trouble too with your back. I shall definitely consider surgery after what you have told me. Just want my quality of life back.
I hope you continue to be pain free!!
5:40 AM on October 27th, 2011
Hi Rachel
I can hear in your words how much you are suffering, I am just coming through the most painful and desperate part of my life, having been housebound for around 2 months. My sciatic pain seems to have diminished (with osteopathy and chiropract literally every 3 to 4 days). I am now more comfortable but not pain free and find the whole recovery period emotionally draining. I seemed to be on the mend but had an MRI scan last week, told by neurosurgeon that surgery was advised. Now feel its a dilemma, take the risk of surgery, or carry on and hope i recover my quality of life. I have missed so much this year already, end of summer vacation with my kids and my daughter’s18th (spent in bed). Already cancelled ski trip for christmas. Am about to see my chiropractor and show him MRI scan,and see what he thinks……. just wanting some advice.
11:46 AM on September 23rd, 2011
Hi, I have been suffering for 2 years with major back pain on the right and down the right leg. it started from playing tennis and running for a low ball, as i hit it i felt a sharp pain, so i rested for 4-5 days. The following Monday i got up and got dressed for work and had a catasprohic back spasm that floored me for 6 weeks. That was Sep2009, the following march after skiing i had another spasm after getting out of the car after driving for an hour or so. lost feeling in my foot and had foot drop, numb toes, sciatica and massive pain. went to the hospital or pain relief then got an MRI which showed L4/5 herniation. in jun2010 got a nerve root block, took it really easy for about 9 months and then i though i had it licked. in jul2011 i rode my MTB for an hour with a different handlebar setting. i ride all the time. the following morning i was taking out dishes from the dishwasher and had major pain. here we go again! no its sep2011, i have still got the pain just had another mri but not too bad looking, but i still have serious pain. i’m trying to think what to do. i’m scheduled for another root block, but it’ll only come back again i think, i would do anything to be out of this pain. any ideas?
6:53 PM on October 6th, 2011
Sept. 1st, 1999, I slipped a disc L5 S1, moving furniture. At that time I was 52 yrs old. I went to the doctor Sept 8th and was given pain pills for almost a year. The pain was getting worse and by July 14, 2000, I went in telling the doctor that I felt a growth on my spine. She patronizedly patted me on my shoulder and said, “Oh Phyllis, you can’t have a growth on your spine”. I then told her that it felt like I was sitting on an egg. I also told her that since seeing her, she had not taken an Xray or MRI. I then DEMANDED that one be taken that day. She ordered an Xray. After waiting, she tried explaining what the vertebrae was, but I interrupted and told her I knew that, but what is that mass at the bottom of my vertebrae. She said it looked like a herniated disc. Since then, I’ve taken MRI’s and more pain pills. The only one that helped me was Motrin 600 mg. I took that from 7/00 until 4/08, when I went in the emergency room with extreme stomach pain. The Motrins has caused me to have 2 ulcers on my stomach, a cyst on my liver and a spot on my pancreas. I was immediately taken off the Motrin, but no other pain medication was prescribed. By July 2008, I couldn’t take the pain anymore and went to an Orthopedic doctor to get an MRI and it showed that the disc had not only been herniated, but was degenerated and was now at the base of my back in a mound of fragmented bones. The MRI also showed that the L4 was affected. I went in for surgery and the mound of fragment bone was removed and a pin was put in place of the 5th disc. Nothing was done to L4 and for other reasons, I decided not to return to that surgeon. In 2010, I went in for an Epidural and during this time, I was only having pain in the left leg. All kinds of test had been taken due to this pain. But during this Epidural, the doctor relieved the pain from the left leg, but hit a nerve in my right leg and I felt it IMMEDIATELY. I complained as he continued to inject and the pain was getting worse in my right leg. He became infuriated with my complaints and descriptions thereof and yelled at me, asking me if I wanted him to stop. Of course my answer was YES! This is 2011 and I am in dire pain in both right and left legs. I also have to walk with a cane (in the house) and a walker (outside the house). I really need a scooter chair, but so far, cannot get a doctor to prescribe one. The last MRI taken shows that L4 and L3 are herniated, degenerated and surgery is needed again. I am 65 yrs old now and have medicare. I am trying to find a good surgeon to operate. I live in the suburbs of Chicago and if anyone knows of a good surgeon, whether Orothopedic or Neuro, please advise at once. I have an appointment to see a doctor tomorrow, but I don’t know anything about him.
I am also raising my 5 yr. old great-granddaughter and it’s getting harder and harder for me to function. Thank you for your information in advance.
1:56 PM on October 10th, 2011
Hi Robert, It sounds like we are experiencing similar issues with our back. Was wondering what you decided to do? I’m scheduled for a disectomy on the 25th and was wanting to know if you’ve found any relief?
Thanks,
Barb
3:01 AM on September 19th, 2011
I have worked in Nursing for 30yrs. Lifting pts and no offense but people just keep getting larger and larger…I injured my back at wrok 3 months ago. Found out it was a herniated disk L3 L4 with touching the spinal nerve.Sharp stabbing pain in my left leg and pain and discomfort in my back. Had three nerve blocks and it has not helped completely. Three doctors 2 say Discectomy and of the the IME Dr says Im fine…Well Im not…My life as before is never going to be the same…I am still off work and getting the run around. I try to walk and do what I can onmy own seems I am the only one who is even remotely concerned…Your right I work in healthcare its like who do you trust…I am 54 and in good health except this now…And I dont want to end up a cripple just because work doesnt want to pay the bill…Anyone out there with any advise let me know….t
5:19 PM on September 17th, 2011
I sound almost identical to Norway. My pain in my butt and down the rt. leg, started in Mid May. I went thru physical therapy and the injections, neither of which helped. the pain got so bad, that I couldn’t walk. I was living on pain pills.
I found a wonderful Neurosurgeon, who saw me one week, and I was in the hosp. for surgery the next week, Sept. 1, 20ll. I had 2 bad disks, one of which was calcified, and had to be removed with a drill. Also a bone spur, pinching on the nerve. The surgery took 3 hrs., but when I woke up, I had no pain and felt wonderful. I went home 2 days later. I do have some pain now, from the surgery itself, but nothing like before. That will all heal in time. I have to be careful and not lift, twist or bend for 3 months. If you are in that much pain, never be afraid of the surgery. Just make sure you find the right Doctor.
11:21 AM on September 12th, 2011
I am a 43 year old women with a herniated disc on L5/S1. I had my surgery September 1st. I lost my feelings in my left leg and had unbearable pain for the last 14 days, but the problem started in the middle of May and increased every day from July.
I was unable to walk without crutches. And when I arrived at the hospital I was unable to walk by myself. After aproximately 45 minutes the surgery was finished, after another 90 minutes I was able and allowed to go home. I walked out and it felt like a miracle! I used ice to cool down the incision every hour the rest of the day and the next four days, also pain killers were used. Now, 10 days later, I am walking my dog, resting on the couch, I have little pain, do not use any pain killers, but preferanse not to sit to much. My leg is still numb and I get easely cramp when I walk, but compared to how it was, I am happy and optimistic. I hope that my leg gets back to normal.
Wish you all good health. Be aware of the things you should and ask for help in time, some of us really need that surgery!!
2:09 PM on August 23rd, 2011
Hi all. Firstly this info sharing is incredibly useful – thanks. My issues began with sciatica running down my right leg for a few weeks. Was prescribed various pain relief (naproxen, codeine (plus anti-sickness tab) and amitriptoline) ands nothing touched it. The sciatica got worse and as a result I now have pain in both legs and have today (after 9wks of this) seen an Orhopaedic surgeon. At first I thought I was just making a big fuss because there is a slight constant pain but I’ve kind of got used to it so felt strange complaining about it. The shooting pains, numbness, pins and needles in my feet that come and go, shooting pain running up and down from the top of my buttocks to my feet are not normal – anyone researching what you have – go and see a specialist, don’t put up with the pain. The surgeon has requested an MRI and I’m booked in for this Thurs and we’ll take it from there. I do hope that all you that have commented previously are doing well and on the road to pain free recovery. I don’t honestly know what the result of my MRI will be but we shall see…onward and upward!
9:27 PM on September 4th, 2011
Hello. Only read Sam’s post so far. I had a laminectomy on Aug. 31 (2011) & am now recovering. I was experiencing some really brutal pain in my rear end & down the backs of both legs. This had been going on for over two years & getting worse with every passing day. I have extensive nerve damage in the back of my left leg due to the nerves being pinched for so long. I have spent the last 18mos trying everything under the moon to help with the pain. I finally met with Dr. Najeeb Thomas, the best neurosurgeon in the greater New Orleans area. He told me I had the largest herniation he has seen so far. When he performed the surgery he also found that the disk plate had ruptured & gone into the spinal canal. When I woke up from anesthesia I had ZERO pain in my butt & legs!! I still have a great deal of numbness but that may go away over time. I’m only 4 days out & can’t really do anything while I heal, but I already know this was the right decision. I spent a lot of time and $$$$$$ trying to fix this problem & wish I had gone straight to the neurosurgeon, but it seems I’ve finally found some relief. I would suggest skipping the orthopedics & going to a good neurosurgeon! Good luck!
12:53 AM on August 23rd, 2011
Hi All…
I had a bad herniation again nearly two years ago..which has left my left leg and foot weak and numb…I have seen Surgeons both in the States and in England (where I had Discectomy 6 years ago L4-L5)…This time they are saying that because of the prior surgery there are more risks this time around..I had all the normal treatment Physio drugs exercises ect but nothing has improved my symptoms..I have a limp and bad nerve pain in my foot…Crushing sensations and crazy sensations in toes etc..I seem to be stuck facing the prospect of staying like this..They hope that over time the herniation will dehydrate and the symptoms will improve but its not happening…I was just wondering if anyone had experience of more than one surgery in the same area..and the results/risks.. Thanks Len
8:55 AM on August 22nd, 2011
I also had unimaginable pain in my rt. butt, groin, calf and my small toes went numb. Could not push off with my rt. toes so my calf started to atrophy. Tryed the Chiro breaker and even he said get the MRI. Best advice a Chiro has ever given me!! MRI showed a 1.7 cm. rupture in the L5\S1. Options?? Not many that work well or quickly. I went with the microdiscetomy, 1.5 inch cut, then snip off the rupture and presto, no more pain. Yes, still some numbness in the toes but this may or may not go away. As far as the calf, do toe lifts and stretching as soon as you walk from your ride home from the Dr.. Work your calf as much as your pain will let you and then do more. Rehab is sooooo important on this calf or you may limp forever. Use it, push off with your toes even if it is uncomfortable. I am 8 days out of surgery and feel great. No lifting more than 20 to 30 lbs. for at least 3 months. I am 47 years old and am looking forward to a great ski season here in Utah if I don’t screw up and think I am ok too soon. Most Drs. want to fix you and never see you again. All Chiro. want to help you but they want to fix you all your life!!! Beware. Discetomy changed my life for the better. Thank you all at McKay Dee hospital and especially Dr.Blake Welling!!!
4:48 PM on August 17th, 2011
Hi everyone, first off I would like say thankyou for giving advice and problems. I have an hearnated disc l5. I had 2 injections, none worked. Shooting pain down left leg only. Saw 2 surgans both said surgery. I didnt like there attitude, it seamed like I was just another paycheck. So I did a nine week physical therapy and got to 90 percent pain free. I was hanging gutters for work. Two weeks later the pain came back full tilt. I asked to do the thearpy again, but my theripist said I did everything I could possiably do other than surgery. so I fought through the pain and did the exersises myself. It worked for about 1 year. Just as yesterday im in serious pain. Pain pills dont work at all. I want surgery just not sure how to pick the right surgen. Can anyone help. Thank you
9:39 PM on September 4th, 2011
Find a good neurosurgeon! Not an orthopedic! I had a herniated disc removed 4 days ago & am feeling great! My story sounds just like yours except that pt never worked for me. I’m a hairdresser with a toddler so I had to get this fixed. Don’t be afraid of surgery just find the best neurosurgeon you can!
10:28 PM on August 16th, 2011
I am 25 with a large disc herniation at L4-L5. I have pain in one leg and numbness from butt to toe on the other leg. I have a hard time walking and have been doind decompression with a chiropractor for about two months now. Nothing has seemed to improve, except I’m not limping as bad. I have been taking Tylenol, Ibuprofin, and Flexoril 3x/day and the pain is still there, plus my liver function is high. Cant go narcotic cause I hav an addictive personality. Saw a neurosurgeon for a second opinion and he recommends surgery. I am starting fall semester at college @ the end of the month and also have a 2 1/2 yr old girl. Does anyone have any suggestions or experiences they could share. I have just heard a lot of bad stories of people coming out of surgery and not doind well. Maybe its just where I live. I live in the state of Maine. Thanks for everyones time! I appreciate it.
9:34 PM on September 4th, 2011
Have the surgery with the NEUROSURGEON!! I have a 3 year old and needed to get my life back also. I am 4 days out of surg & can already tell that it worked. Don’t wait to long because the nerve damage will become more extensive and more permanent. Good luck!
1:40 AM on August 12th, 2011
Anyone heard of Dr. Remesh Sahjpaul? Or had him operate on you or someone you know? He is a neurosurgeon in Vancouver British Coulumbia. Im only trying to research him and the surgery as much as possible. very nervous about it. thanx for your help
10:07 PM on August 1st, 2011
I have two herniated discs. I have been living with back pain for over a year now. I have been going to a pain clinic and have had just about any kind of injection you can think of, multiple series of physical therapy, and pain meds that don’t touch the pain. I see a surgeon on Wed. I am hoping that he offers surgery. I am so tired of being limited at what I can and can not do and the constant pain in my lower back along with it shooting down both my legs. My only concern is my weight. I weighed 350lbs when my bulging discs ruptured. since then I have lost 56lbs. While that is a lot of weight it hasn’t change the pain any. I am wondering if the surgeon will require me to loose more weight prior to doing surgery. I can’t live like this much longer. It’s bringing me way down, I already have bipolar, manic depression and anxiety disorder. The continuous pain only adds to my problems. Please pray for me that the surgeons will have some solution to my problems and that God will guide us in the right direction.
4:17 PM on July 26th, 2011
My son, 28 years old, herniated disc in L5. He had buttocks and leg pain all the way down to his toes in the left leg for 6 months. He did all the exercises, ice, and everything else he knew to do but it continually got worse. His leg started to atrophy and then last week on Tuesday he got to where he could not move and could not go to work and was in excruciating pain. On Thursday he finally went to an Orthopedic Surgeon (specializes only in the spine). The doctor is very conservative when it come to surgery but highly recommended it in his case as soon as it was possible. Yesterday (which was three days later), he had the surgery and he is back home today, feeling great and pain-free! The doctor said when he opened him up, it was confirmed that we had made the best decision with going ahead with the surgery. None of the epidural steroid shots or medication would have ever helped him. So glad we did not do the shots and pain medication that only masks the problem. The epidural shots ruins good tissue, etc…. and if you end up having the surgery it can cause more difficulty with scar tissue from the shots. We researched the best doctor we could find, we trusted him and we also did a lot of praying and trusted the Lord. We know the Lord is going to continue to heal him and give him a full recovery back to 100%!
4:20 PM on July 26th, 2011
I fogot to say my son had the microdiscectomy. Doctor started the procedure at 12:00 noon and was finished at 12:45.
1:23 AM on August 12th, 2011
hi rea, can you please tell me the name of the surgeon you seen for your sons surgery? and where is he from? i have the exact same problem as your son. how is he doing now? thank you for your help
1:32 AM on August 12th, 2011
iv got a large right L5-S1 disc herniation compressing the S1 nerve root. and a moderate size extrusion on the left side.shooting pain down both of my legs.all the way down to the ankles. also in the groin area.doctor says i need surgery. but im scared shitless of the surgery because of the risks involved….if anyone has had this problem and had the surgery…some feedback would be very much appreciated.
5:14 PM on July 23rd, 2011
Hi, im only 17 years old and i have had 2 herniated disks, i experience sharp pain in my back and all the way down my butt and my legs. i have had these symptoms for a year or so and after physical therapy,and then i got 2 epidural shots. Finally my doctor suggested surgery and it took my awhile but i have decided to go ahead with the surgery. I’m going in for it next week. my doctor told me it is about a 2 hour operation and im going to be in the hospital for 1-2 days and that the recovery time is 2 week or so.
11:50 AM on July 20th, 2011
I had same issue, I had nerve pain shooting down my right leg and pain the buttock area. I started with physical therapy (core stabilization) but found it just aggravated it. I then moved to the epidural shots (no help there). I eventually had a microdiscectomy/laminectomy. Basically it envolved the surgeon shaving away some bone in the S1 to open up the area so as to free up the impingment. It took about 1.5 hours to perform and I felt like I had been hit by a truck. But within 6 weeks my leg and butt pain was completly gone. Once and a while I will get a charlie horse, but it’s nothing compared to having them 5-6 times a day before surgery. I’m now just dealing with the back pain. But like a “kinked” hose, the rush of nerve sensors are firing off (like pressurized water being released.) the Doc says my back pain will also increase due to the poking around the disc itself. Most people I have spoken to have said it takes about a year for the disk to calm down. But I was advised that I will have to make a “lifestyle change” in my activites and career path. That means no high impact activites. Otherwise I will require a Disc Fusion. Which I’m trying to avoid at all costs. I hope this info has helped.
5:39 PM on July 15th, 2011
I’m a military drill instructor and have an L5-S1 herniation. I had an impingment to my sciatic nerve root in the beginning. I went through all the shots and medications with no relief. I ended up having a micro-discectomy, this relieved my leg and butt pain completely. But I found that my back pain increased. My military ortho-surgeon (who is said to be the best in the military) says this is normal. I still find myself having to push myself more than planned. Both because of my intense job and assisting with the care of my disabled son. I was told I have this injury because of all the physical stresses I have put on my body (both military and law enforcement background). I’m very commited to my career and I’m doing everything I can to improve as fast as I can. But it seems to take forever to get back to normal. I began aquatic-therapy today and felt great in the pool. Of course the momment I got out I felt like crawling under a humvee and sleeping for hours because of the pain. If anyone out there has the same experience and has good advice, please provide it (like a time-line of when I will feel 100% ). Everyday I’m stuck in an office and away from training recruits bums me out.
4:16 AM on July 18th, 2011
I have had low back pain for approx. 10 weeks. During this time I have also had pain in my buttock on same side which eventually developed into the worst nerve pain I have ever had down same leg. I had an MRI scan last week and am waiting for the results. I am sort of hoping that I will not need surgery but if it is the only answer to curing the pain I will gladly embrace it. Can you please advise re your own experience of spinal surgery.
3:36 PM on May 31st, 2011
Its me again.
After 2 private specialists in 2 different private clinics I will try SPINE DECOMPRESSION WITH DRX9000 in London.
If it does not work I will have to go for the fusion operation as for my specialists. I have had personally a scripture from the Holy Spirit that i will be running again soon : Malachia 4:2 . Blessings to you all to you and your life and your family too from Carmine
4:08 PM on May 30th, 2011
I am only 22 and i have a herniated disc iconstantly feel pain all down myleft side including numbness and pain in my leg and foot right down to arm and to my fingers. I have degenerative disc disease as well. i dont know what to do but i cant take the pain anymore its making me miserable… It has gotten sobad that i even have a size difference between the two sides of my body. Can someone help? im really young and im scared to get surgery but i do not know what else to do…
4:12 PM on May 30th, 2011
The herniation is at the level of L5 and S1 with degenerative disc dehydration, which slightly touches the left sided L5 nerve root. If someone can give me the feedback i need it would be greatly appreciated. Thanks and good luck with everyone
3:30 PM on June 4th, 2011
I had the same problems you described. I’m very active- or was- teach school, run, hike, etc.. So, I did 2 epidurals w/ no luck. Mine was from a car accident L5,S1 9mm herniated disc but there was a bone fragment into my sciatic nerve on my right side. I went to a neurosurgeon at Kaiser (just changed ins. a year ago). I did my homework to find out who was really good at backs. I live 45 min from where this one was located. I had the out patient. Felt so good! NO pain!! But developed a csf leak- very rare. Went back in for a second surgery – they found the tiny hole- stitched in and packed it. Stayed in the hospital 3 days flat on my back. I’m home now w/ a lot of pain at times, but my leg pain and butt pain is still gone. My advise would be to find the best dr. possible in your area. Ask around, look them up. Find someone who only specializes in backs. I was told a neurosurgeon- if he/ she is good, is better than an orthopedic surgeon. Best of luck!!
11:14 PM on June 12th, 2011
recently had similar symptoms as u. my doctor did 3 epideral shots one week apart. third shot finally gave me relief. back to work but left leg still weak. had therapy and still exercise at home and work. i was miserable and alone and lots of narcotics. worse part was waiting to get the epideral shots. don’t give up. keep bugging doctor or get second opinion. good luck.
12:25 AM on May 26th, 2011
I have been out of work for 2 months due to a huge herniated disc (L5/S1) along with the 2 discs above that are abnormal. the herniation goes 14 mm in my spinal canal. Which has given me pain down my right leg, hip, foot along with numbness. I have done muscle relaxers, injections, therapy. I need to go in for my 2nd injection. both of my doctors tell me that I should consider surgery after this injection if I’m still in pain. My mom thinks I should think hard about this surgery.
It’s just that I’ve never had surgery. I’m a single parent with 3 young kids at home and scared about it all. My surgeon says even with the surgery that I will only be 50% better and I’ll never be 100% again.
I have no clue what I should do.
3:27 PM on May 31st, 2011
I would encourage you to see all the videodiary on simlar operations on youtube. Some are great help as they videoclip it all before and after the operations and they PROVIDE honest feedbacks about fusion operations or other disks operations.
all the best to everybody and i fell for you all as i got the same problem with 3 herniated disks and been offered a fusione operation next.
11:22 AM on May 24th, 2011
I will be going to the laser spine center in Tampa Fl if you can find the episode on the doctors show where individuals have gotten there life back I have herniated disks I also have spine narrowing you can look up the procedures they perform and talk to an individual about your problem i am seeing a chiropractor i have had steroid injections and physical therapy and i am in constant pain i am considering the procedure finances to take the trip is preventing me from going today. I have an appt. with a neurosurgeon they remove tissue which i want to avoid the procedure i am talking about they do not remove tissue and recovery time is faster and less pain thank you very much georgia
9:19 AM on June 23rd, 2011
to Georgia Jill – I had laser surgery at the spine center in Tampa. Let me advise you to save your money. It is a total waste of time. Any good neurosurgeon will tell you they are nothing but a marketing scheme. You may get very temporary relief, if any, from the laser. Lasers are not for spine surgery! Do not be fooled into this the way I was. Fortunately no damage was done and I am able to get my surgery from a professional with lasting results. Do some research before you go. I have spoken to people who worked there who will tell you what a sham it is.
1:46 AM on August 12th, 2011
laser surgery is great for eyes but does NOT work for spines.
1:12 AM on May 23rd, 2011
My GF has a herniation of the L/5, she just took her 2nd cortisone shot and after each one the pain has increased significantly, to the point where it is nearly unbearable. She can no longer stand for more than a a couple of minutes. Has anyone else experienced the pain increase so intensely and lose more use of your leg yet still have all the strength? Just looking for some answers, some support.
1:30 PM on May 26th, 2011
I had my first surgery in 1999. After months of terrible pain, a simple surgery relieved the pain entirely…. I was walking with hours after the surgery.. Now I have the same problem again. I have gone thru the steps of injections, exercise, and I am ready for surgery. If your dr. suggest surgery, go for it……….you will not believe the difference..
4:11 PM on May 19th, 2011
Be very selective about your surgeon and procedure. I have firsthand knowledge of a laminectomy/discectomy going way wrong, only to be corrected later by a different surgeon with a fusion (L5/S1) and the patient is now a landscaper. Look for attentiveness and humility in your surgeon and your odds for success go up exponentially.
10:32 AM on May 18th, 2011
Hello there. I have two herniated discs as well in my lower spine and usually am in excruciating pain. I have gone to the doctor and recommended therapy. Didn’t really like it and do not want to be taking medication or steroids. I really want to go ahead with the surgery, but some of the comments about surgery gone bad scare me. I am 27 years old and really like being outdoors. My life has completely changed since this pain came into my life. I can barely stand straight at times and have
Gotten some mild depression.
Most articles I’ve read, say the success rate for the surgery is 95% and 10% of the people who get the surgery reherniate. My worry is that I will have problems if I start doing this like working out or jogging again. Any advice from people who got the surgery done and live an active lifestyle.
Would be greatly appreciated.
12:27 AM on August 12th, 2011
@Rob: I had this problem in 1997. I lived with it for over 2 years. Then I went through a surgery in 2000 because the pain was unbearable. I lived normal doing all sports and other outdoor activities. Since May 2011, I have this problem again. This time with my right leg. Today, I am going for an MRI scan. I am a bit scary of the second surgery thats why I am doing some research now. But my first experience was very pleasant. Good luck and best wishes
1:51 AM on August 12th, 2011
i got the some problem as you do, so i kno what you are going through. im kind of scared of he surgery also. ill let you know if i read see or hear anything. good luck
9:11 PM on April 9th, 2011
I have a daughter that is a D1 college lacrosse player which has herniated discs in L2 and L3….years of weight lifting from grade 8 to 12….trusted the professional and did what she was told. Now this 2 time all american with a scholarship can not even play. She has tried physical therapy, chiropractor, meds, accupuncture and is so bad that she can hardly make it across campus to her classes. Her dream was to play at this school and now she can not walk across campus….At age 19, surgery is the option she is facing….long term theyhave told her she may make it 6 mos. or 6 years….who do you trust? what do you do???? She has been in limbo for almost a year….so frustrated….any advice is greatly appreciated.
9:53 PM on April 7th, 2011
Ok so I’m 20h with two kids a 2yr old an 3mth old and have 3 herniiated discs. I’m gettin surgary wednes day an am so nervous…is it the right decession}??}
4:14 PM on May 9th, 2011
Meg how did your surgery go what kind of surgery did you go for?
9:43 PM on April 3rd, 2011
My 12 year old daughter has adolecent disc herniation along with a small piece of chipped bone pressing on her spinal cord, we have been doing everything suggested by doctors, and now have to wait a month to see how she goes and if any change in her pain etc, then to find out if surgery will be going ahead or not?? I’m really concerned about the surgery, but am also very concerned in relation to all of the medication she has been prescribed and been taking for four months now. Her bubbly personality and normally busy lifestyle is now noticibly diminishing . She is missing her dancing (aprox 8 hours a week )and all of her sport activities as she is unable to do anything…Any suggestions ???
4:52 AM on April 2nd, 2011
I had herniated disc at L5-S1 and the surgery mid-Dec2010. Immediate relieve will be the pain prior to surgery. Strenght in bending down the toes is recovering well. I would rate it to be 7/10. My feet are still having numbness. I have not recover my calf muscles and my walking is still limb. It have been 3 1/2 months since surgery, I am not too sure when will I recover the calf muscles.
10:06 PM on April 15th, 2011
i have Disk problem{L-5,S-1) lower back pain along with RHS leg pain, Doctor’s adviced me surgery, but i am afraid about surgery, every one says not go with surgery, why every one says surgery is not good, i am working with pain from last six month, my life has been changed,pls advised, is surgery can remove this problem permanent?
6:12 PM on February 27th, 2011
Hi my name is milly. i just found ou thru mri results that i have 8 herniated disc. i was considering surgery but am afraid of going thru with it.
2:57 AM on May 1st, 2011
Go ahead to do the surgrey , there is nothing to it, i did mt and everything went smooth!
3:57 PM on November 13th, 2010
Thank you, I suffer from this issue and lately I’ve been thinking to opp for surgery but didnt know where to start.
Thak you again this article is extreamly helpful