Microdiscectomy Recovery: What to Expect & Healing Process

Microdiscectomy is a microsurgical procedure in which a spinal surgeon uses a microscope and laser incisions to remove a section of vertebra to access a pinched nerve. The surgeon removes the section of disk that is compressing the nerve and replaces the vertebra. Recovery time from microdiscectomy can vary and depends on several factors.

Types

• Post-operative care includes rest, pain medication and exercises designed to promote blood flow to the area while restoring flexibility and increasing strength.

Expert Insight

• According to Theodore B. Goldstein, MD, of Spine-Health.com, the old approach of restricting patients' physical activity for six weeks following surgery contributes to more complications, such as a longer healing time. Moderate exercise begun shortly after microdiscectomy can speed recovery.

Time Frame

• Surgeons generally recommend restricted activity for two weeks and a return to normal activities at six weeks; bending, lifting and twisting should be avoided as much as possible for the rest of your life, according to SpinalNeurosurgery.com.

Pain Management

• In addition to pain medication, Dr. Goldstein suggests applying ice packs to the surgical area every 1 to 2 hours for the first 48 hours, and also using ice therapy after physical activities that provoke pain during and after recovery.

Considerations

• Dr. Robert Pashman, MD, of E-spine.com recommends keeping realistic expectations and points out that people recover at different rates. If you are in poor health or were overweight before the microdiscectomy, your recovery time will likely take longer than the "normal" six weeks.