What it is
Lumbar discectomy removes the part of a disc that is pressing on a nerve root. A microdiscectomy is a minimally invasive approach that utilises a microscope. The goal is to alleviate leg pain and restore function when conservative care has been unsuccessful or when weakness persists.
Rehabilitation protects healing, restores confident movement, and rebuilds strength for return to work and sport.
What happens when it occurs
The fragment is removed, and the nerve is decompressed. Early walking reduces stiffness. Range and load are increased in stages as pain settles and the wound heals.
Common indications and pre‑operative factors
- Leg pain and neurological signs from a disc herniation
- Symptoms that persist despite structured conservative care
- Progressive weakness or significant functional loss
Who is most affected
Adults with persistent radicular symptoms affecting work or daily life in Australia.
Typical symptoms before surgery
- Leg pain in a dermatomal pattern
- Numbness or weakness in some cases
- Back pain may be present or mild
When to seek care
Urgently for bladder or bowel change or rapidly progressive weakness. Surgical review when symptoms persist and function is limited.
How we diagnose
History and neurological examination, MRI to confirm the level and side, and review of response to prior care.
Management
- Protected mobility and wound care
- Early walking and gentle mobility within comfort
- Trunk and hip strength, nerve mobility drills as appropriate
- Return to work plan with volume before intensity
Rehabilitation milestones
Phase 1 weeks 0 to 2: wound care, short walks, position strategies.
Phase 2 weeks 2 to 6: progressive strength and endurance, task practice.
Phase 3 weeks 6 to 12: return to running or heavier tasks by criteria.
Readiness to progress
- Leg pain improved and is stable
- Neurological signs are improving or stable
- Strength and endurance benchmarks met
Long-term care
- Maintain trunk and hip conditioning
- Plan recovery weeks during heavy workloads
- Avoid long fixed sitting in the early months
Australia snapshot
- Common day surgery in Australian spine centres
- Most return to desk duties within weeks and manual roles by stages
- Leg pain relief is typical when the nerve is decompressed
Latest insights
Walk early, then build strength. Volume before intensity.
Symptom changes guide the pace more than the calendar.
