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Patients who are in good physical condition are likely to recover within 1-3 months and should be able to perform all or most of their pre-injury activities.
Removal of the herniated disc does not guarantee that future back pain will not occur.
A patient's goals and lifestyle may need to be altered, with modification of future activity levels.
The overall condition of the spine at the level of the disc may result in the recommendation for a fusion procedure.
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Immediately after surgery, as anesthesia wears off, patients will usually feel tired and slightly disoriented, though the after-effects of anesthesia can vary greatly from patient to patient.
Post-operative pain will be controlled through the administration of painkillers.
Patients are up and walking the same night or the next morning following surgery.
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Lumbar: Supports
A bad back can often be the result of poor posture and positioning. A lumbosacral back support, when properly fitted and positioned, will help to maintain a proper, stable posture when sitting at a chair or driving in the car. Poor posture while sitting forces the spine out of its proper position and puts a significant strain on the muscles, tendons and ligaments that support the spine. Lumbar supports can be found in a wide range of sizes and styles.
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NSAIDs
NSAIDs (Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs) are a group of drugs used to control pain. This category of medications includes both prescription and common over-the-counter painkillers such as ibuprofen. NSAIDs are effective for many types of pain that can occur because of inflammation of muscles, joints and bones. The drugs work quickly and people often notice some benefit within a few hours of taking the tablet. However, the complete effectiveness of the drug may not be realized for up to four weeks. For each individual, some varieties of NSAIDs are more effective than others. Often, patients will find that one or two varieties are helpful whereas others may not be as effective in controlling symptoms. It is usually necessary to try several brands and continue with the one that is most suitable. NSAIDs can be used to treat:
Pain resulting from inflammation or swelling.
Pain after injury.
Joint pain and arthritis.
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Risks during and after surgery include problems that may develop in relation to bleeding, the possibility of infection, and reactions to anesthesia.
Nerve root injury that could result in paralysis, loss of feeling, or loss of bowel and bladder control
A tear in the covering of the spinal cord (dura) with leaking of spinal fluid and the need to repair the tear and stop the leak.
Injury to blood vessels.
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