Medically reviewed by Dr. Scheid
Chronic back pain has a way of narrowing your world — limiting the activities you love, disrupting sleep, and making even a short walk feel like a challenge. For patients whose pain stems from a herniated lumbar disc pressing against a spinal nerve, conservative treatments only go so far. When medications, physical therapy, and rest fail to bring lasting relief, microdiscectomy offers a targeted, minimally invasive path forward.
At NeuroSpine Plus, we understand how disruptive spine pain can be on daily life, and we are committed to helping patients in North Bergen and across New Jersey find real, lasting relief. Led by Dr. Edward Scheid, a spine surgeon with over 20 years of experience and more than 8,000 successful surgeries, our team offers comprehensive spine care with a focus on minimally invasive techniques designed to reduce downtime and improve outcomes. Our North Bergen office, located at 6307 John F. Kennedy Blvd, makes it easy for local patients to access the care they need close to home.
What Is Microdiscectomy?
Microdiscectomy, also known as microdecompression, is a minimally invasive surgical procedure performed to relieve pressure on spinal nerves caused by a herniated disc. During the procedure, Dr. Scheid carefully removes the damaged disc material that is compressing the nerve, reducing pain and restoring normal function. Because the surgery uses specialized tools and requires only a small incision, it causes significantly less disruption to surrounding muscles and tissue compared to traditional open spine surgery.
How the Procedure Works
The surgery is typically performed under general anesthesia, with the patient lying face down. A small incision is made over the affected disc, and a surgical microscope is used to give Dr. Scheid a clear, magnified view of the surgical site. The herniated disc material pressing on the nerve is then carefully removed. According to the National Institutes of Health, microdiscectomy is considered the gold standard surgical procedure for treating most lumbar disc herniations. The entire procedure typically takes one to two hours, and most patients are able to go home the same day or the following morning.
Who Is a Candidate for Microdiscectomy?
Not every patient with a herniated disc will need surgery, and our team always evaluates non-surgical options first. A microdiscectomy may be recommended when conservative treatments have not produced adequate relief after six to eight weeks. Patients who experience persistent leg pain, numbness, or weakness due to nerve compression are often good candidates for this procedure.
Common Symptoms That May Indicate Surgery
Several specific symptoms may point to the need for surgical intervention. Our team reviews each patient’s imaging, medical history, and symptom progression before recommending any course of treatment. Microdiscectomy is typically considered for patients experiencing one or more of the following:
- Radiating leg pain: pain traveling down the leg (sciatica) that does not improve with conservative care
- Numbness or tingling: persistent sensory changes in the leg or foot
- Muscle weakness: difficulty lifting the foot or weakness in the lower extremity
- Bowel or bladder changes: new dysfunction that may indicate severe nerve compression
Every patient’s situation is different, and Dr. Scheid will walk you through your diagnostic findings and all available treatment options before any decisions are made.
Recovery After Microdiscectomy
One of the most significant advantages of microdiscectomy is the relatively quick recovery time compared to traditional open surgery. Most patients begin walking within hours of the procedure and are able to return to light activities within a few days. Our team will provide personalized recovery guidelines to help you safely restore movement and strength. We also work closely with patients to understand how their specific condition, lifestyle, and goals factor into recovery planning.
What to Expect During Healing
In the early days of recovery, patients should avoid heavy lifting, prolonged sitting, and strenuous activity. Gentle movement is encouraged to reduce the risk of scar tissue formation and support healing. Many patients find that their leg pain begins to improve shortly after surgery, though nerve healing can take additional weeks or months, depending on the severity of the compression. A structured return to activity, guided by our team, helps patients move through recovery with confidence and clarity.
Why Choose NeuroSpine Plus for Microdiscectomy in North Bergen?
Choosing the right surgeon and practice for spine surgery is one of the most important decisions a patient will make. Our team brings surgical precision, compassionate care, and deep familiarity with a full spectrum of spinal conditions to every patient encounter. We prioritize minimally invasive approaches whenever appropriate because we know that less tissue disruption means less pain, shorter hospital stays, and a faster return to the life you want to live.
Dr. Scheid and the entire NeuroSpine Plus team operate with a patient-first philosophy. From the initial consultation through the final stages of recovery, we are available to answer questions, address concerns, and adjust your care plan as needed. Patients across North Bergen, Jersey City, Paramus, and beyond trust us with their spine health, and we take that responsibility seriously. Learn more about our team and the experience behind every procedure we perform.
Contact NeuroSpine Plus in North Bergen, NJ
Living with debilitating back or leg pain is not something anyone should have to accept as permanent. If you have been exploring your options and want to speak with a spine surgeon who will take the time to truly understand your condition, NeuroSpine Plus is here to help. Dr. Scheid’s 20+ years of experience and record of more than 8,000 successful surgeries reflect a commitment to outcomes that go beyond the operating room. We serve patients from our convenient locations across New Jersey, including our North Bergen office at 6307 John F. Kennedy Blvd.
To find out whether microdiscectomy or another spine procedure is right for you, reach out to our team today. We welcome patients from throughout Hudson County and the surrounding region who are ready to take the next step toward relief. Complete our contact form to request a consultation, and let us help you move forward.
Schedule an Appointment
Medically Reviewed by Dr. Scheid & The Team at NeuroSpine Plus
Last updated: May 1, 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.