Lumbar discectomy: relieving a pressed nerve in the lower back
When a disc in the lower back presses on a nerve and symptoms continue, a lumbar discectomy may be considered. Dr. Rajesh Pathi will explain how it works and whether it is the right step for you.
When to seek emergency care. New loss of bladder or bowel control, numbness around the saddle area, or rapidly worsening weakness in the legs need emergency care. Call 108 or go to the nearest emergency department.
Most lumbar disc problems improve without surgery
Time, activity advice and rehabilitation help many people. Surgery is for persisting or worsening nerve symptoms, or weakness.
What to know about lumbar discectomy
General information to help you ask the right questions — not a substitute for your own consultation.
What is a lumbar disc prolapse?
A disc bulges and presses on a nerve, often causing leg pain (sciatica).
What does discectomy do?
It removes the part of the disc pressing on the nerve.
How soon is surgery needed?
Rarely urgently, except when there are warning signs.
Warning signs
New loss of bladder or bowel control, numbness around the saddle area, or fast-worsening weakness need urgent care.
What shapes the recommendation
Leg symptoms
Pain, numbness and weakness.
Scan findings
Whether the disc matches the symptoms.
Time course
How long symptoms have persisted.
Your goals
What you need to get back to.
How a lumbar discectomy is done
Under anaesthesia, through a small incision in the lower back.
The spine is reached carefully through a small opening.
The nerve is gently protected.
The disc fragment pressing on it is removed.
You are guided on safe movement during recovery.
Your journey, stage by stage
Assessment & scans
Your symptoms, examination and imaging are reviewed together.
Options & risks discussed
An honest conversation about surgery, alternatives and risks.
Preparation
Clear instructions about medicines, fasting and what to expect.
Anaesthesia & set-up
Careful preparation with continuous monitoring.
The operation
Carried out with precision, tailored to your case.
Close observation
Monitoring straight afterwards.
Early recovery
Guidance on movement, wound care and warning signs. Timelines vary.
Rehabilitation
Support to regain strength and function where needed.
Follow-up
Review of how you're recovering, with scans if appropriate.
Want to be sure before deciding?
A second opinion before an operation is common and welcome. Learn how second opinions work at Anoki.
Learn About Second Opinion Services
Dr. Rajesh Pathi
Dr. Pathi recommends a disc operation only when it is likely to help, and explains the alternatives first.
Questions people often have
It can in some people. Dr. Pathi will explain the likelihood for your case.
Often, yes, as part of recovery.
It depends on your job and recovery.
Yes, including non-surgical care.
Want to talk through lumbar discectomy?
Book a consultation with Dr. Rajesh Pathi at our Pragathi Nagar clinic.
