The best part about the microdiscectomy treatment for a lumbar disc herniation is that it is a relatively short, outpatient procedure. The second best part is this metaphor: Think of the disc like a jelly donut. When you get a tear, injury, or weakened outer part of the disc, the jelly center essentially squirts out. The jelly then compresses surrounding nerves causing severe pain, numbness, and weakness. While many patients get better within 6-12 weeks as that jelly resorbs, those who do not get better after weeks of physical therapy and medication will likely need surgery to remove portions of the herniated disc, relieving the pressure.
- Downtime:
Immediate resumption of daily activities. - Recovery
Avoid high impact activity and heavy lifting 4-6 weeks.
