Considering Surgery
With modern surgical techniques, surgery no longer needs to carry with it a sense of trepidation. Reduced invasiveness in procedures means operating is now a very viable solution to intrusive back pain.
Surgery for Sciatica (leg pain)
The majority of acute episodes of sciatica will settle on their own.
If it does not do so within a reasonable period of time, or if the symptoms are unacceptable, it is reasonable to consider surgery. What constitutes a reasonable period of time, and what are unacceptably severe symptoms, are of course subjective matters and will vary from one person to another. If improvement is going to occur it will usually be evident within the first six weeks and the patient should be showing good signs of recovery by three months.
Not everybody can wait this length of time for symptoms to settle. If this is the case, or if symptoms have failed to show the expected improvement, discectomy may be appropriate.
There are other causes for leg pain, such as spinal stenosis. Disorders of the Lower Spine describes what causes this condition and the possible treatments, including surgery, are discussed in Spinal Decompression.
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In memory of Nick Boeree
Following the sudden death of Nick Boeree we have set up a tribute page to allow you to share your memories, thoughts, and feelings. Click here.
I can't imagine how things could have gone any better - and so I extend the greatest of thanks to Nick Boeree, as well as to a wonderful anaesthetist Dr. McGill, and to all the staff at Nuffield. So far so good - or as the locals fondly say, touch wood!
Tyler Dylan-Hyde
