Sciatica Surgery

Is Sciatica Surgery Right For You?

The lower portion of the spine has a sciatic nerve. It is one of the longest nerves in the human body and is also responsible for feeling in the leg down to the foot. When the nerve is compressed or damaged it may cause extreme pain to move up and down the lower back and legs. Back pain surgery is most often recommended when the nerve is severely damaged or non-invasive treatments are no longer controlling pain. The most commonly performed surgeries on this type of spinal problem are the laminotomy and the discectomy. The laminotomy is performed by removing a plate responsible for protecting the spinal cord.

The discectomy is a surgery that removes all or a portion of a herniated disc to alleviate the pressure on the sciatic nerve. This will greatly reduce the feeling of pain and discomfort associated with the disorder. There are a few things to expect after having your sciatica operation. Recovery from piriformis syndrome surgery will take approximately two to four weeks to heal. You should avoid heavy lifting or any sport activities to avoid re-injuring your spinal column, which can cause more damage. You will also need to follow doctor’s orders on how to sit and stand properly, which will be provided to you before surgery.

If you are experiencing an unusually high temperature or fever after surgery be sure to report it to your doctor right away. Because of the nature of sciatica surgery doctors will recommend the procedure as a last resort. Back pain surgery is effective for more than 95% of patients and noticeable relief occurs right away. Though non-surgical methods of treatment are available to individuals suffering from sciatica nerve damage surgery usually provides long-term relief. Individuals whose pain has reached an unbearable level most often prefer it. Though a doctor can recommend other forms of treatments surgery is primarily up to the patient.

Speaking with a doctor about the benefits of a sciatica operation is also recommended. You should also ask questions until you feel comfortable with having the procedure done. Ask about the recovery and down time as well as possible risks related to this type of operation, which is very important information to know before under going surgery. The benefits of having the operation include immediate relief from pain in the lower back, the legs or the backside. Less pressure placed on the affected area will mean more range of motion and less pain in the area as well. You will also be able to get back to the things you enjoy doing the most.