You should report any numbness to your surgeon immediately after surgery. After my basketball season. A lumbarmicrodiscectomymay become necessarywhen a herniated lumber disc affects one side of the body. Piriformis syndrome after lumbar spine surgery was defined as persistent or newly developed sciatica after surgery, sciatic notch tenderness and induced sciatica, and positive Freiberg sign. Microdiscectomy Candidates In NYC Tagged:leg symptoms after a lumbar microdiscectomy. Microdiscectomy is a minimally invasive procedure with an outstanding track record for relieving pain. The Content on this Site is presented in a summary fashion, and is intended to be used for educational and entertainment purposes only. When I walk I barely notice it. The explanation and descriptions are easy to follow and so helpful in understanding the a variety of conditions covered.Thank you Dr Corenmen for providing such a valuable directory of information. Doc agrees it is probably permanent nerve damage. Using small surgical tools, your surgeon will create a tiny incision and move aside the muscles and nerve root. I thank you from the bottom of my heart for your answers. I haven't worked since the end of May and my time from work that I have available to remain off work and not lose my job is getting real close. Over 200,000 lumbar discectomies are performed in the United States each year, most of which are microdiscectomies. However, two days after the long walk, I developed buttock nerve pain in my right side, the very side that was compromised before surgery. They prevent vertebrae from rubbing together and help maintain spine flexibility. As was mentioned earlier, the type of surgical technique used during the initial procedure and type of herniation strongly influence whether or not there will be a recurrence. If you haven't seen them, here are two videos I made in which I explain how I feel during the first day and third day after surgery: I took muscle relaxants for the first two weeks or so for the initial microdiscectomy recovery period. Here are some of the mistakes that you will want to avoid whileconvalescing after amicrodiscectomyprocedure: Youre going to be a little sore while initially recovering from surgery, and that is perfectly normal. Now considered the gold standard treatment forremovingherniated lumbar disc tissue, a microdiscectomy procedure is an ultra-precise method that requires only atinyincisioncausing minimal disruption to surrounding healthy tissue. Suffering from lower back, leg, or buttock pain? This site is for educational purposes only; no information is intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Depending on theindividual, every microdiscectomy recovery proceeds slightly differently. !he read all of my issue and details and his replies really helped me in decidingi am now confident about my decision and i now totally understand the procedure thanks to the in-depth information providedthank you ever so much ! See Also. Leg pain is definitely secondary to problems in back because there is a spinal cord from brain to the tail tip which gives branches to the legs and arms at d. Although symptoms are varied andcanbecome more severe with movement, they typically include: When you are experiencing any of these warning signs onan ongoingbasis,its best toschedule an evaluationwith afellowship-trainedorthopedic surgeon. This treatment is done immediately following the discectomyduring the same operationand doesnt require any additional incisions or time in the hospital. NSAIDs, acetaminophen, or other medications may be used to continue managing pain after opioids are discontinued. The most common is inflammation. The doctor put surgical tools through the . Scar tissue forms with all surgeries, but it sometimes becomes an issue if it forms around a nerve root. Asa patient,thereare five classicsymptomsto watch for: When experiencingrecurrent discreherniation, a patient might also report pain in a different location, intensity, orrelated tophysical activity. Most patients are gradually weaned off opioids over a period of 1 to 2 weeks. Study design: A single-center retrospective study. The Affected Nerve Root May Need Some Time to HealOne reason your leg may still hurt after microdiscectomy surgery is because of the way compression can affect nerve roots. Thank you for choosing Dr. Corenman as your healthcare provider. By ignoring the pain, you mayalso be neglectinga serious issue that could cause long-term damage. Herniation can occur due to back injuries, undue spinal stress from heavy lifting or participation in sports, and even the normal aging process as the spinal discs dry out and become more brittle, forcing a disc's outer membrane to crack and its inner core material to ooze out. But what if you start experiencing long-lasting pain that persists for weeks and months after your surgery? His nurse PT followed-up with me after surgery and was the one to release me to come home from hospital. Thanks for the response. A microdiscectomy is a procedure which is typically indicated when a herniated, protruded, or extruded disc in your spine presses against a central nerve causing leg pain, numbness, or weakness.Microdiscectomy, also sometimes called microdecompression or microdiskectomy, is a minimally invasive surgical procedure performed on patients with a herniated lumbar disc. Stronger painkillers, such as opioids, are typically used in combination with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). And although recovery from lumbar microdiscectomy is quicker and less painful than more invasive types of back surgery, youwillstill need to take some precautions. my L5 / S1 disc herniation mainly lead to severe left-side buttocks pain when stretching the nerve. However, if the pain persists or gets worse over time, there might be some other issue at play, such as apinched nerveor sciatica pain. To alleviate any concerns you might have, your surgeonwillcover any potential complicationsbeforethe procedure. 1.3 Postoperative inflammation of the nerve root. A microdiscectomy is aminimally invasiveversion of the surgerythatcan be performed on various parts of the spine. In the weeks following your procedure, contact your surgeon right away if your numbness or pain increases significantly. Sit with your back straight, not slouched or bent over. This surgery uses smaller cuts (incisions) than an open lumbar discectomy. Now I can do it pain-free. What follows is a snapshot of life after a microdiscectomy, along with common microdiscectomy recovery mistakes that everypostoperativepatient should avoid. prescribed. is surgery that creates space by removing the lamina, the back part of the vertebrae that covers your spinal cord. Back pain can grow progressively worse and more disabling, depending on the cause. Trained as both a Medical Doctor and Doctor of Chiropractic, Dr. Corenman earned academic appointments as Clinical Assistant Professor and Assistant Professor of Orthopaedic Surgery at the University of Colorado Health Sciences Center, and his research on spine surgery and rehabilitation has resulted in the publication of multiple peer-reviewed articles and two books. This pain is really a "pain in the butt." I am extremely grateful for the opportunity to have an answer to my question from you. In this case, the source of the pain will continue since the direct cause of the issue was not pinpointed properly. I have nerve issues in the lumbar and my spine doc is in denial - advice? If this service is not available, try to do activities at home that mimic your daily work schedule to develop muscular conditioning and a reserve for the initial days at work. Usually, the first signs of healing appear within the first 2-4 weeks after the procedure, and after 12 weeks, the patient should be able to return to everyday life. Light physical activity is important for tissue healing and regaining . Discectomy, or microdiscectomy, is a procedure during which the surgeon removes a small portion of the disc that is compressing the nerve. Get Veritas Health Newsletters delivered to your inbox. For patients with strenuous or physically demanding jobs,waiting three months or longer before resuming physical work activities is the norm. , the top reason for leg pain after a microdiscectomy or similar decompression procedure is an incorrect initial diagnosis. Lumbar Microdiscectomy Surgery Video. For editorial comments and questions, you can reach Dr. Bergin via email. In addition to medication, ice packs and/or heat wraps may be used. The best posture for someone with back pain is lying on their side in the fetal position. He refers to a study, published July 2017 in the journal, BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders, which indicated that patients who did not limit their activities during the healing process actually returned to work sooner than those who adhered to specific restrictions. During a microdiscectomy procedure, the surgeonuses a microscope and laser toremovepart of the nucleus pulposus through a small incision (less than 2 inches). The surgery was a success in a way that my buttocks pain is much less severe now. It is our goal to provide the highest level of care and service to our patients. During this time, the incision will likely become inflamed and there may be some drainage. I have also started swimming two days ago. A microdiscectomy is a fairly common type of spine surgery, and its one that often produces beneficial results, including a noticeable decrease in discomfort. One reason your leg may still hurt after microdiscectomy surgery is because of the way compression can affect nerve roots. Standing, walking, swimming wasn't a big issue, however sitting down was . A lumbar laminectomy is surgery to ease pressure on the spinal cord and nerves of the lower spine. My health is my most important concern, will just have to see how things go. If the source of your discomfort wasn't accurately diagnosed, a nerve that sends signals to your legs may still be compressed. The procedure involves a surgeon making small cuts in the patient's back and then, while peering through a lighted endoscope, carefully removing herniated tissue or portions of the offending bone protecting a nerve root. TO GET AN ACCURATE DIAGNOSIS, YOU MUST VISIT A QUALIFIED PROFESSIONAL IN PERSON. The lumbar laminectomy may be one option. Thus, we know there is a 3-6% risk of a recurrent disc problem happening after lumbar discectomy surgeries. If youstill have apprehensions, theycansharespecificmicrodiscectomy recovery stories with you. A. is an outpatientsurgicalprocedureperformed under anesthesia to remove all or part of a herniated disc. Could it be that I havent walked enough? About 2 weeks after lumbar microdiscectomy, most patients begin to experience significantly less pain and higher energy level. 1.2 Inflammation of the membranes that surround the nerves of the spinal cord. If it's similar or slightly improved to your pre-op pain, then I wouldn't panic. Sometimes after a discectomy, scar tissue forms near the nerve root and can cause extreme burning or nerve pain even if the surgery was successful in relieving the initial pain. Thank you for choosing Dr. Corenman as your healthcare provider. All me back pain was home as soon as Hey All. Finally, seroma formation can occur. This is called recurrent disk herniation. The patient reported a new pain experience on the left buttock that started insidiously two weeks after discharge. The loss of this pain after surgery is a good indicator that the nerve is relative free of compression. "Because the procedure is minimally invasive, it results in less tissue destruction and leaves fewer reasons to restrict a patient's activities following surgery and a quicker discectomy recovery.". Regarding your situation, I think pain is normal after a microdiscectomy. While it is hoped that any accompanying back pain . Sciatica is the type of pain that originates in your lower back and typically radiates down one or both of your legs. If you try to work through the pain, you could be causing yourself more harm than good and risking recurrence of herniation." Extend your walking distance gradually; engage in aerobic exercises like riding a stationary bicycle if you have access to one at home or a local fitness center and can do so without pain. my doctor recommended surgery. Usually, the restrictions after lumbar discectomy involve avoiding twisting the spine, especially while lifting heavy things. The first 3 weeks were rough in terms of inability to walk longer than 20 minutes without tiring, night hip pain and constant incision stiffness. Objective: To compare the speed of recovery of different sensory symptoms, pain, numbness, and paresthesia, after lumbar nerve root decompression. Or is it normal after this kind of surgery and will resolve on its own? The "no pain, no gain" adage does not apply," Dr. Liu says. thank you, I truly appreciate your answer. Even though the nerve is injured at the spine, it feels like the pain is coming from the . The foot drop thing is exactly what isgoing on. While rare, this can happen within the surgical site where the microdiscectomy was performed. I am happy to tell you that the buttock pain reported before has significantly subsided. Next Page: If the source of your discomfort wasn't accurately diagnosed, a nerve that sends signals to your legs may still be compressed. I am still having burning pins and needles in my ankle and lower leg even though the nerve is no compressed. How long ago did you have your surgery? The best way to avoid pain and other issues after surgery is to choose a procedure that has minimal risk. Have very little movement or ability to flex my ankle. Generally, herniated disc surgery recovery is relatively quick, with a high success rate. Our physicians serve as innovators in technology,actively participate in national and international research studies,and are on the forefront of medical knowledge. Spinal intervertebral discs are the bodys shock absorbers, allowing the back to be strong, highly flexible, and resilient. This article explains some of the potential reasons this may be the case. Epidurals x3, PT 4 mos, some relief, but constant foot pain and numbness continued Microdiscectomy 6/6/03 9/5/03 still have foot pain and numbness but recovered fine from surgery 1/19/04 I am 7 mos post op. In the days and weeks after surgery your body needs time to repair the incision. Similarly, a thinned-out and stretched- out annulus place the patient at higher risk for reherniation, along with a wide incision of the annulus during surgery. I know it would be best to still be on sick leave, but this is not possible. is a fellowship trained, board certified orthopedic surgeon who has been practicing since 1999 and specializes in complex spinal treatment. Now considered the gold standard treatment forremovingherniated lumbar disc tissue, a microdiscectomy procedure is an ultra-precise method that requires only atinyincisioncausing minimal disruption to surrounding healthy tissue. I sincerely thank you for your helpful advice. You don't want a FUSION!! This problem is often resolved with physical therapy, although minor surgery may be needed in some situations. If the pain is still there after 3 months, it is unlikely to improve on its own. We have asolidcommitment to excellence in diagnosing and treating spinal injuries and conditions spanning all age groups. Dr. Bergin has a special interest in medical research and maintains membership in the Scoliosis Research Society. 2 days after my surgery my pain came back full throttle and worse than before. "Do what's comfortable. Removing partor alloftheoffendingdischelpsaddress pain, numbness, weakness, balance issues, or mobility problems. What is a lumbar discectomy? Its not uncommon for patients to return to work about two weeks post-surgery, although others may needan entiremonth ofhealing. This article explains some of the potential reasons this may be the case. The patient reported pain radiating in multiple trajectories but on clinical assessment had no specific dermatomal distribution. Pain from a spinal stenosis may be resolved with decompression surgery. Never disregard the medical advice of your physician or health professional, or delay in seeking such advice, because of something you read on this Site. Nerve tingling or paresthesias are common post nerve decompression. It is not intended to be and should not be interpreted as medical advice or a diagnosis of any health or fitness problem, condition or disease; or a recommendation for a specific test, doctor, care provider, procedure, treatment plan, product, or course of action. You will beaskedto keep theareaclean and to cover it while bathing or showering. Give us a call today at (919)-787-7246. Prescription non-compliance can cause side effects and other consequences that place your health and wellbeing at risk. At The Spine Center, were dedicated to providing you with high-quality, personalized back and neck care. Have experienced some problems with my left leg that wasn't experiencing before surgery - numb, pins & needles, walk with a gate - seems to be getting better, however, the butt pain is killing me? The medical term for sciatica is lumbar radiculopathy: pinching of a nerve as it exits the spine. The most common reason to have a microdiscectomy is to alleviate nerve pain that has not resolved within a reas. Common symptoms of post-laminectomy pain syndrome include the following: Dull, aching pain in the neck, shoulders, arms, fingers, back, buttocks, or hips Pain levels similar to what you felt before surgery Pain in your arms or legs, which may be either constant or radiating Weeks 4 and 5 I started noticing improvement. Fifteen cases were diagnosed as piriformis syndrome. Endoscopic microdiscectomy is usually performed in the lumbar (lower) region of the back after the failure of more conservative therapeutic measures, such as light exercise, medications, hot or cold compresses, physical therapy, spinal manipulation, and epidural injections, to relieve the nerve pain of a herniated disc, according to Dr. Liu. The information is produced and reviewed by over 200 medical professionals with the goal of providing trusted, uniquely informative information for people with painful health conditions. Recognizing any of these conditions requires a repeat MRI with gadolinium. One possible source of this type of secondary nerve irritation is piriformis syndrome, which refers to issues with a muscle deep within the buttocks called the piriformis muscle. Microdiscectomies can be performed using 3 main techniques: Microdiscectomy is usually very effective at treating leg pain, with about a 90% success rate in relieving pain in the leg and/or buttocks. Thank you for your answers and your advice. Ive been reading through many of these questions and respons 38 year old male, 5'8 165 pounds. ligamentum buckling or hypertrophy in cervical spine. Our physicians serve as innovators in technology, actively participate in national and international research studies, and areatthe forefront of medical knowledge. This surgery is designed to relieve pressure on a pinched vertebral nerve..Microdiscectomy surgery may be suitable for patients who experience leg pain for at least 6 weeks who have not found sufficient relief from conservative therapies. Same as you, the right foot is fine. Incision Drainage Issues. For patients experiencing nerve pain from a herniated or bulging vertebral disc, significant weakness and numbness can result in the legs and buttock areas that correspond with the pinched nerve. I can't believe so much time has passed already! Unfortunately, this microdiscectomy recovery time depends on many factors, including the patients general health, the speed of tissue recovery, the success of the procedure, etc., so the actual herniated disc surgery recovery time can be longer. I will keep going with my phyisical therapy, perform gentle stretches additionally and contact my surgeon again if things havent improved after 12 weeks? A new treatment, Barricaid, which is a bone-anchored device proven to reduce reherniations, was specifically designed to close the large hole often left in the spinal disc after microdiscectomy. If the drainage fluid is thin, watery, and pinkish red, there is likely nothing to be . Your doctor made a 2.5- to 5-centimetre (1- to 2-inch) cut (incision) in the skin over the spine. Although taking multiple short walks daily is encouraged,walking too muchimmediatelyafteramicrodiscectomyprocedurecan cause a setback to your recovery. These conditions will typically not resolve on their own, and will require additional treatment potentially an additional surgical procedure. I had already decided to play it safe and use a cane. Peer-Reviewed. C7-T1 Post operative pain - Neurology Pain Around Belly Button | 10 Belly . We strive to. Once you start experiencing recurring back pain,your surgeonmustdetermine if the pain is being caused byreherniationor an acute flare-up. Recovering from surgery to correct a herniated spinal disc is no time to sit "back" and relax. A lumbar microdiscectomy may become necessary when a herniated lumber disc affects one side of the body. Vic1979. Living with a pinched nerve causing both leg and buttock pain can be agonizing. In fact, in many situations, it's often possible to treat or manage lingering leg pain following a microdiscectomy with nonsurgical techniques. Our physicians serve as innovators in technology,actively participate in national and international research studies,and are on the forefront of medical knowledge. Called my surgeons office, spoke with nurse, seemed to care less-pain getting worse-follow-up appointment not until four more days!!! If it's worse than before your operation, I would ring your surgeon for advice. . If you have any questions about the Barricaid treatment or how to get access to Barricaid, ask your doctor or contact us at. Just to mention, even before surgery, I never had much leg pain. Still, Dr. Liu cautions that, during the first couple weeks following surgery, patients should avoid repeatedly bending or twisting, lifting anything heavier than five or six pounds, driving, or performing tasks like lawn mowing, sweeping, shoveling snow or dirt, doing the laundry, running, jogging or other activities that can overly tax back muscles. Peekawho is right..you probably need a dose pack of steroids..I had the same problem after my discectomy..they put me on a dose pack, and after the first pill, the pain in my butt and down my leg went away..hang in there..my surgeon explained it this way"the reason you are experiencing that pain, is because the nerve that has been pressed on by the disc for so long, is extremely "pissed off" and needs time to cool down.."it did finally cool down, with the help of the steroidsYes, be firm with the officegood luck..did you have foot drop?..if so, how severe?..and has it improved?