sciatic pain

[1sorepup]

I am 52, and have had severe sciatic nerve pain for months. An MRI was done and shows herniated disks in L3, L4, L5 and also, discs S1, and S2. Was told that the nerve could actually be seen spasming during the MRI and it is the S1, and S2 discs are compressing the sciatic nerve, and was sent to a neurosurgeon. I am facing surgery in the next few weeks. Would like to ask if anyone else has had this procedure done and how successful it was. I have had low back pain for years, but, prior to this spring, I have never had pain like this before. Any information is appreciated.

[DrNoopurMD]

Hi,

Thanks for writing in.
Sciatica surgery like microdiscectomy involves removing of the herniated disc which is compressing the nerve.
Laminectomy involves removing a part of the spine known as known as the lamina. These procedures create more space for the nerves.
After surgery it is not possible to get better immediately. You will be on bed for at least 24 hrs and take pain medications for 2-4 weeks. You will have to restrict your normal daily activities for some time. No contact sports, heavy lifting and bending till you recover completely. The results of the surgery depend upon the competency of the surgeon and general well being of the patient.

[1sorepup]

Thank you for your response. When this pain began in May of this year, my PCP recommended physical therapy, which I went to from late May through mid July, to no significant relief. I then went to a chiropractor who showed me 'my' xrays, which were done in his office. He said the reason for this pain is that I was born with one missing lumbar disc, and one extra sacral disc. My question was, well, if that is the case, then why has it taken 52 years for me to develop this kind of pain. He didn't have a concrete answer to that, and so ended my chiropractic care. I have had mild scoliosis since childhood, but, nothing serious enough to have affected my normal life. I know, not all chiropractors are quacks, but, my experience with the one I had, has deterred  me from turning to that avenue for help ever again.
Finally, in September, as the pain has escalated to this rediculous level, the MRI was done, and I was referred by my PCP to see the neurosurgeon. Oh, not to my surprise, I asked if the MRI showed the 'missing lumbar disc, and extra sacral disc', my doctor looked at me like I had lost my marbles, and said, no.
For care of this at home, I am doing mild stretches, walking laps around the terrace where I live and using pain medication while I wait for the appointment  with the neurosurgeon. It was my PCP, who after reviewing the report of the MRI who made this recommendation, and since I have sought alternative care for this condition, it seemed the logical next step.

[caregiver222]

BEFORE the chancre mechanics talk you into surgury, find a physical rehab facility such as at the VA and go through their protocols to relieve nerve compression. You went to a neurosurgeon, huh. What did you EXPECT him to recommend? Medicine is divided into two fiercely competitive areas. Surgical and medicine. In the emergency room I have witnessed fist fights between the two camps argueing over treatment recommendations. Contrary to the advice they have given you, you are not at the end of the line.