When Is Surgery Necessary for a Herniated Disc?

If you have a herniated disc, you know all too well the pain, numbness, or weakness it causes. The good news is that most people can improve with non-surgical treatments, like rest, physical therapy, and medication. However, in some cases, surgery may be the best option to relieve pressure on the nerves and restore mobility.

At Texas Neurosurgery, LLP in Dallas, TX, patients receive top-level neurosurgical care tailored to their unique needs. The experienced surgeons, Dr. Chris Michael and Dr. Shaad Bidiwala, work closely with each patient and their physician to determine the best treatment plan, whether that’s conservative therapy, a minimally invasive microdiscectomy, or a more advanced spinal procedure.

When Conservative Treatments Aren’t Enough

Doctors typically recommend trying conservative treatments for at least six weeks before considering surgery. These may include anti-inflammatory medications, physical therapy, spinal injections, or chiropractic care. If your pain or symptoms persist despite these efforts, or if they worsen, surgery might be the next step.

You may be a surgical candidate if:

• Pain significantly limits your daily activities or work.
• You experience ongoing numbness, tingling, or weakness in your arms or legs.
• Conservative care provides little or no relief after several weeks.

Red Flag Symptoms That Require Immediate Attention

Certain symptoms indicate a more serious nerve compression and may require emergency surgery. These include:

• Loss of bladder or bowel control.
• Severe weakness in the legs or feet.
• Numbness in the groin or inner thighs (known as saddle anesthesia).

These symptoms can point to cauda equina syndrome, a rare but urgent condition that demands immediate surgical intervention to prevent permanent nerve damage.

Common Surgical Options

The most common procedure for a herniated disc is a microdiscectomy, a minimally invasive surgery to remove the part of the disc pressing on the nerve. In more severe cases, procedures like a laminectomy or spinal fusion may be required to stabilize the spine.

Discover Relief from a Herniated Disc with Treatment in Dallas, TX

Surgery for a herniated disc is usually reserved for patients whose pain or nerve symptoms significantly affect their quality of life. If conservative treatments haven’t worked and your doctor recommends surgery, it’s important to discuss the risks, benefits, and recovery process to make an informed decision.

Call us today at 214-823-2052 to schedule a consultation. With the right care, many patients experience long-lasting relief and a return to normal activity.