What to expect from microdiscectomy for sciatica

Sciatica presents with pain or altered sensation that travels along a nerve from the lower back into the buttock or leg. When a disc fragment presses on that nerve, microdiscectomy removes it through a small incision. Leg pain can improve before tingling or weakness. The back may remain sore during early recovery.

Begin gentle walking as your discharge plan allows, use medicines as directed and protect the wound. Avoid heavy lifting and repeated bending or twisting until cleared. A physiotherapist can guide posture and strengthening. Arrange help with household tasks at first, and increase activity in response to symptoms.

Seek emergency assessment for new or worsening weakness, numbness around the genitals or anus, inability to pass urine, or loss of bladder or bowel control. Call your surgical team about fever, wound discharge, worsening redness or a sudden return of intense leg symptoms. Breathing difficulty or chest pain is an emergency.

Ask which leg symptoms are linked to the compressed nerve, how much walking is encouraged, what signs suggest nerve deterioration, and when driving, work, exercise and physiotherapy can resume.