What is a Lumbar Herniated Disc?
The most common signs and symptoms of lumbar disk herniations are back pain that radiates to buttocks and legs, numbness in the leg or foot, weakness in the leg or foot, and rarely, loss of bowel and bladder control.
What are My Treatment Options for a Lumbar Herniated Disc?
- X-ray of the middle-back: X-rays help to detect the amount of wear and tear present and to rule out other conditions.
- CT and MRI scan: These tests are done to confirm the diagnosis of herniated disc.
Conservative treatment includes pain medications, physical therapy, and avoiding strenuous activity if the pain is severe.
Epidural Steroid Injection (ESI): ESI can be considered if the pain is intolerable even with medications and rest.
Lumbar microdiscectomy is a surgical procedure done to remove a herniated part of the disk and any fragments that are putting pressure on the spinal nerve. This surgical procedure involves use of a surgical microscope and microsurgical techniques to gain access to the lumbar spine. The microscope magnifies and illuminates the area of operation. Only a small portion of the herniated disc that pinches on the nerve roots is removed.