Question
Hi

I am a 26 years working women. I have been diagnosed with sequestrated IVDP L5-S1 by my doctor. I am having in my left leg calf muscles and numbness in my left foot. The doctor has advised to undergo a micro surgery to remove the degenerated disc fragments which is irritating the sciatic nerve.

Doctor advised that traction or physiotheraphy will not help.
I am in complete bed rest for past 10 days and the pain and numbness continues. Please advise whether the surgery is mandatory. Is there any post operative difficulties that may arise.

Thanks

Answer
Nithya,

Some microsurgery involves insertion of a needle to suck out disc fragments.  It's about the most minor surgery done.  Best to ask your doctor.

That won't handle the underlying cause of the condition, which usually involves contracted back muscles.  You will need to have some movement training to remove that problem.  That will allow the vertebrae to resume their normal spacing and position and prevent recurrence of the problem.

After the procedure, you may have some muscular back pain and stiffness.

Please see my articles on back pain and on recovery from injury:

http://www.somatics.com/back_pain.htm
http://www.somatics.com/back_pain_terms.htm
http://www.somatics.com/recovery_from_injury.htm

Note that the process discussed here is not traditional physical therapy.

with regard,
Lawrence Gold