Discs in the spine function as cushioning between the vertebrae. In some cases, the outermost parts of these discs can be injured and tear, causing the inner part to bulge out, pressing on the spinal cord. This is known as a herniated disc.
Herniated discs can cause a lot of pain, numbness, and weakness. If you’ve been suffering from a herniated disc in the lower back, a lumbar disc microsurgery may provide you with relief.
Symptoms of Herniated Discs
Though herniated discs can have a variety of symptoms, common symptoms of herniated discs in the lower back are:
- Pain on one side of the body
- Sharp pain that radiates to the leg, hip, buttocks, or foot
- Pain while moving
- Weakness in one part of the body
- Pain while bending
- Pain while sneezing, coughing, or laughing
If your symptoms worsen, immediately seek medical attention. A severely herniated disc can cause paralysis.
Who Should Get Lumbar Disc Microsurgery?
Lumbar disc microsurgeries involve taking out part of the herniated disc in order to decrease the pressure on the spinal cord. Once the pressure is alleviated, your symptoms should improve.
Not everyone with a herniated disc in the lower back needs surgery. Other treatments include physical therapy and anti-inflammatory medicine. However, your doctor may recommend surgery if your symptoms are unresponsive to treatment.
Your doctor may not recommend surgery should they believe complications from surgery may be too great. Common risks can include infection, increased bleeding, and blood clots. Always consult a doctor to understand the risks and benefits of surgery.
Lumbar Disc Microsurgery at Princeton Neurological Surgery
Lower back pain can be incredibly distressing and disruptive to your life. If your back pain is worsening, don’t delay. Consult a doctor immediately in order to begin treatment.
At Princeton Neurological Surgery, Dr. John Lipani understands back pain. As a top neurosurgeon and spine surgeon in New Jersey and New York, he provides exceptional care to the New Jersey cities of Hamilton, Bridgewater, Edison, Morristown, and Paramus, as well as Melville and New York City in New York.
If you’re suffering from back pain, click here to schedule an appointment at one of our many offices.