Lumbar Discectomy

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The regions of the spine are defined by their vertebral curvature and function. Vertebrae are the bones that align to make up your spine. The lumbar spine is located in your lower back. The main function of the lumbar spine is to support the weight of your upper body. The lumbar spine primarily allows you to bend forward or flex and extend or straighten at the waist. You use lumbar flexion when you bend forward to touch your toes. You use lumbar extension when you straighten your back to stand erect after bending forward.

A herniated or “ruptured” disc is a common source of low back pain. Discs are the shock-absorbing pads that are between vertebrae. A herniated disc occurs when its outer layer ruptures and the contents come out of the disc. If the contents extend into the spinal canal, it can put pressure on the spinal nerves.

A herniated disc can cause tingling, numbness, pain, and weakness in one or both legs. It can also cause back pain. Most herniated discs can resolve with non-surgical treatments. However, when conservative treatments fail, Lumbar Discectomy surgery is recommended to relieve pain and restore function.