How long will I be out of work after a Microdiscectomy?
Patients may return to light work duties as early as 1-2 weeks after surgery, depending on when the surgical pain has subsided. Patients may return to heavy work and sports as early as 4-6 weeks after surgery, if the surgical pain has subsided and the back strength has returned appropriately with physical therapy.
How long does it take for nerve to heal after Microdiscectomy?
Most patients feel significant relief from leg pain immediately after microdiscectomy surgery. Weakness, numbness, and other neurological symptoms, however, may improve more gradually. It may take weeks or months for the nerve root to heal to the point at which numbness and weakness subside.
What can you not do after a Microdiscectomy?
Do not do any running/jogging, vacuuming, weight lifting, sweeping/mopping, laundry, shoveling or raking, riding a lawn mower, wave runner or anything that might irritate your back until you have completely healed from your surgery. Do not drive for at least two weeks after surgery.
How long after Microdiscectomy can I walk?
Liu says. He suggests patients start the recovery process by walking short distances during the first couple weeks after surgery and then gradually build endurance until they can walk two miles to three miles a day. “Endoscopic microdiscectomy is the modern approach to repair of herniated discs,” Dr.
Can I climb stairs after Microdiscectomy?
Weeks 1-2: Unlimited walking is permitted. You may walk up stairs. Sitting is alright, but avoid prolonged sitting, as this may cause discomfort. Do not lift any object greater than 5 pounds.
What happens if I bend after Microdiscectomy?
Activity Restrictions to Prevent Reinjury However, some doctors may permit a return to these movements sooner. Limited research suggests that bending, lifting, and twisting 2 weeks after lumbar microdiscectomy does not increase the risk for re-injury or another herniation.
Why does my leg still hurt after Microdiscectomy?
Most patients notice that it is much improved but there is still some aching in the leg because the nerve has a “memory” for the pain and remains slightly irritable. This usually resolves within a matter of weeks. The numbness usually resolves over weeks or months as the nerve recovers.
How common is Reherniation after Microdiscectomy?
Reherniation is the most common complication after lumbar discectomy. In fact, 7-18 percent2 of discectomy patients experience recurrent disc herniation.
Does a discectomy weaken the disc?
LMD can weaken your disc. In a few patients this can cause pain or instability. If this happens, you may need more surgery to fuse the weakened disc.
How should I sit after discectomy?
After surgery, avoid sitting in soft chairs and on couches where your hips drop below your knees. If a chair is too high for you, place your feet on a small stool or box to help maintain correct sitting posture. Take frequent breaks by standing up and stretching every 30 to 45 minutes.
How bad is the pain after Microdiscectomy?
Initial Pain Management During the initial 2 weeks after a microdiscectomy surgery, the pain is most intense. Stronger painkillers, such as opioids, are typically used in combination with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Most patients are gradually weaned off opioids over a period of 1 to 2 weeks.
How long will my back hurt after Microdiscectomy?
You can expect your back to feel stiff or sore after surgery. This should improve in the weeks after surgery. You may have relief from your symptoms right away, or you may get better over days or weeks. In the weeks after your surgery, it may be hard to sit or stand in one position for very long.
What to expect after a discectomy?
The recovery time after discectomy surgery differs from 1 to 4 weeks depending on the underlying illness dealt with and your general health. You may feel pain at the site of the laceration. The initial pain might not be totally relieved instantly after surgery.
What is the recovery time for a discectomy?
The surgery requires a short stay in the clinic (1 to 3 days) and a gradual recovery between 1 and 6 weeks. However, the technology has advanced and it can be performed by ‘ Endoscopic Micro Discectomy” with the patient able to continue their normal life in two days.
What is the recovery time from spinal fusion?
Spinal fusion surgery is a corrective surgery for all spine problems. Spinal fusion recovery time is about 4 to 6 months, with lifetime care.