The pain in your lower back that you experience could be associated with sciatica. This is a condition that can often be debilitating at times, preventing you from moving like you normally would and performing even the simplest of tasks. Fortunately, minimally-invasive spine surgery is a treatment option that can deliver the sciatica relief you need.
The most common type of surgery to relieve pain associated with sciatica is called microdiscectomy. There are a few reasons as to why you might want to consider surgery, especially if you have tried other treatment options with little to no success. One reason is that you have a dysfunction of your bladder or your bowel. This occurs when your spine presses on these areas of your body, promoting abnormal urinary and bowel functions. You should also consider surgery if you have weakness or numbness in your legs or if your symptoms have become severe enough to the point that they are impacting your daily life.
Once you’ve reviewed all of the details about spinal surgery and how it can provide sciatica relief, you’ll make the decision as to whether you want to have surgery or not. During a minimally-invasive procedure, you’ll usually be admitted to a hospital so that you can stay in the facility overnight or for a few days depending on how well you begin to recover. Our doctor will take X-rays of your back and possibly order an MRI to determine the area that needs to be treated.
When you’re ready for surgery, our doctor will make an incision in your lower back. A small portion of the disc that’s herniated will be removed to relieve pressure. Sometimes, the entire disc is removed. A microdiscectomy is considered minimally-invasive because of the size of the incision and because there are only a few details involved. A benefit of this type of surgery is that you’ll usually recover faster, which means that you’ll be able to get back to the things that you enjoy doing sooner than if you were to have invasive surgery that requires a larger incision and possible rods or screws in your spine. Keep in mind that it could be about a day or two before you’re able to sit up in a chair or stand. The goal of this type of surgery is to offer better movement and less pain.
Visit Plymouth Bay Orthopedic Associates to learn more about sciatica relief and how minimally-invasive surgery could be just what you need. We are conveniently located in Plymouth, Duxbury and Sandwich. Contact us today to schedule your consultation!