Medically reviewed by Dr. Scheid
A herniated disc pressing against a spinal nerve can turn even the simplest daily tasks into an ordeal. The sharp, shooting leg pain, the numbness, the weakness that makes it hard to stand up straight — these symptoms have a way of wearing you down quickly. When weeks of conservative care have not brought enough relief, it may be time to consider a surgical solution designed to address the root of the problem without disrupting the rest of your life.
At NeuroSpine Plus, we offer microdiscectomy to patients in Hamilton, NJ who are ready to move beyond the limitations caused by a herniated disc. Led by Dr. Edward Scheid, a spine surgeon with over 20 years of experience and more than 8,000 successful surgeries, our team takes a minimally invasive approach to spine care that is focused on precision, faster recovery, and lasting relief. Our Hamilton location, conveniently situated at 3836 Quakerbridge Road, is one of six offices we operate across New Jersey, making access to high-quality spine care straightforward for patients throughout the region.
What Is Microdiscectomy?
Microdiscectomy is a minimally invasive spine procedure designed to relieve nerve compression caused by a herniated lumbar disc. During the procedure, a small incision is made near the affected spinal level, and a surgical microscope is used to provide magnified, illuminated visualization of the disc and surrounding structures. The surgeon then carefully removes the portion of the disc that is pressing on the nerve, eliminating the source of pain and related symptoms.
How It Differs from Traditional Disc Surgery
Because microdiscectomy uses a much smaller incision than traditional open discectomy, it causes significantly less disruption to the surrounding muscles and tissue. According to the National Institutes of Health, microdiscectomy is considered the gold standard for removing most lumbar disc herniations due to its smaller incision, less traumatic approach, and better visualization of the operative field. Patients who undergo this procedure typically experience reduced blood loss, a shorter hospital stay, and a quicker return to normal activities compared to older surgical methods.
Who Is a Candidate for Microdiscectomy?
Microdiscectomy is most appropriate for patients who have a confirmed lumbar disc herniation and are experiencing persistent radicular symptoms, such as sciatica, leg pain, numbness, or weakness. We generally recommend this procedure when conservative treatments like rest, anti-inflammatory medications, and targeted therapies have not produced adequate improvement over a meaningful period of time.
Conditions That May Benefit
Most patients who come to us for this procedure have been dealing with symptoms that originate in the lower back and radiate down through the buttock, thigh, and leg. While individual cases vary and the right treatment is always determined on a per-patient basis, microdiscectomy is often considered for the following:
- Lumbar disc herniation: A disc that has ruptured or bulged out of position, placing pressure on a nearby nerve root
- Sciatica caused by disc compression: Radiating pain, tingling, or weakness along the sciatic nerve pathway
- Neurological symptoms: Numbness or muscle weakness in the legs that is limiting daily function
- Failed conservative management: Ongoing symptoms that have not responded sufficiently to non-surgical approaches
Every patient who walks through our door is evaluated individually. Dr. Scheid determines the appropriate treatment plan based on a thorough assessment of each person’s condition, imaging findings, and goals.
What to Expect During Recovery
One of the advantages microdiscectomy holds over traditional surgery is its recovery profile. Many patients are able to walk on the day of the procedure or the following morning. While everyone heals at their own pace, most people find that they can gradually resume light activity within days and return to work within a few weeks, depending on the physical demands of their job.
Supporting Your Recovery
Following your procedure, our team will provide you with detailed post-operative guidance to support your healing. This may include activity modifications, follow-up appointments to monitor your progress, and recommendations for physical therapy to rebuild strength and reduce the risk of re-injury. We encourage our patients to ask questions throughout the process so that recovery feels manageable and well-supported at every step.
For additional information about your recovery and what the process typically involves, our blog on physical therapy after spine surgery is a helpful resource. You can also read more about conservative approaches to spine care on our conservative spine treatment blog to understand what non-surgical options may be available alongside or prior to surgery.
Why Choose NeuroSpine Plus for Microdiscectomy in Jersey City, NJ
Choosing the right surgical team matters, and at NeuroSpine Plus, patients in Jersey City have access to a practice built on precision, experience, and patient-centered care. Our Jersey City location at 550 Newark Avenue, Suite 408, is conveniently accessible for patients throughout Hudson County and the surrounding region.
Dr. Scheid’s extensive background in minimally invasive spine surgery means that patients benefit from a surgical approach designed to minimize disruption and maximize results. With over 8,000 successful surgeries behind him, he brings a depth of knowledge and technical skill that gives patients confidence in their care. Our practice treats a full spectrum of spinal conditions — from patients who can be managed conservatively to those requiring surgical intervention — ensuring that every patient gets the level of care they actually need.
We also offer six convenient New Jersey locations, including Paramus, Edison, North Bergen, Mount Laurel, and Hamilton, so patients have flexible options for consultations and follow-up appointments. Our team is committed to accessibility and to making the path to relief as straightforward as possible.
Schedule Your Microdiscectomy Consultation at NeuroSpine Plus
If you are living with persistent leg pain, numbness, or weakness caused by a herniated disc, it may be time to explore whether a microdiscectomy is right for you. At NeuroSpine Plus, we take the time to understand your symptoms, review your imaging, and help you make an informed decision about your care.
We welcome patients from Jersey City, the greater Hudson County area, and beyond to reach out and take the first step toward relief. Contact our office today by visiting our contact form to request a consultation, and let us help you find the path back to comfort and mobility.
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Medically Reviewed by Dr. Scheid & The Team at NeuroSpine Plus
Last updated: April 30, 2026The team at NeuroSpine Plus is led by Dr. Edward Scheid, a board-certified neurosurgeon with over 20 years of experience and 8,000+ successful surgeries. Along with his dedicated team of physician assistants and medical professionals, NeuroSpine Plus specializes in minimally invasive spine surgery and comprehensive spine care across six convenient locations in New Jersey. Our clinical expertise in treating complex spine conditions ensures all content is medically accurate and based on proven treatment approaches we use daily in our practice.