Medically reviewed by Dr. Scheid
A herniated disc pressing on a spinal nerve can turn everyday life into a constant negotiation with pain. Leg pain, numbness that creeps down the calf, and weakness that makes standing feel like a chore are not signs to ignore — they are signals that the nerve is under pressure and relief may require more than rest and time.
At NeuroSpine Plus, we understand how debilitating that kind of pain can be, and we are proud to offer microdiscectomy to patients in Paramus, NJ and the surrounding region. Led by Dr. Edward Scheid, a spine surgeon with over 20 years of experience and more than 8,000 successful surgeries, our team has helped countless patients move from chronic nerve pain to lasting recovery. If you have been told a herniated disc may be causing your symptoms, our procedures page is a good place to start learning about your options.
What Is Microdiscectomy?
Microdiscectomy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure designed to relieve pressure on a spinal nerve caused by a herniated disc. During the procedure, a small incision is made in the lower back and a surgical microscope or magnifying loupes are used to guide the removal of the disc material that is compressing the nerve. Because the incision is small and the surrounding muscle tissue is largely preserved, this approach is far less disruptive than traditional open back surgery.
How It Differs From Open Discectomy
Unlike traditional open discectomy, which typically requires larger incisions and more extensive muscle retraction, microdiscectomy uses precision instruments under magnification to access only the affected area. This means less blood loss, a shorter hospital stay, and a faster return to daily activity for most patients. According to the National Institutes of Health, lumbar disc herniation surgery, including microdiscectomy, is among the most commonly performed spinal procedures and has a well-established track record when performed on appropriately selected patients.
Who Is a Good Candidate?
Microdiscectomy is typically considered when conservative treatments such as rest, physical therapy, or anti-inflammatory medications have not brought adequate relief after several weeks. Patients who experience persistent sciatica, radiating leg pain, numbness, or muscle weakness related to a herniated lumbar disc are often good candidates for the procedure. A thorough evaluation, including MRI imaging, is part of how we determine whether microdiscectomy is the right path for each patient.
What to Expect at NeuroSpine Plus in Paramus
When you come to our Paramus location for a microdiscectomy consultation, our team walks you through each step of the process so there are no surprises. We begin with a detailed review of your medical history, imaging results, and symptom timeline to confirm that surgery is the most appropriate solution for your condition. Dr. Scheid and his team of physician assistants take the time to answer your questions and explain what the procedure involves from start to finish.
The Procedure Itself
Microdiscectomy is typically performed as an outpatient or same-day procedure, meaning most patients return home the same day. Under general or local anesthesia, a small incision is made near the affected vertebra and the herniated disc material is carefully removed from around the compressed nerve root. The goal is to relieve the pressure causing your symptoms while preserving as much healthy disc tissue and spinal structure as possible.
Recovery and Return to Activity
Recovery time following microdiscectomy is generally much shorter than with traditional open spine surgery. Most patients are up and walking within hours of the procedure and are able to resume light daily activities within a few weeks. We provide detailed post-operative instructions and follow-up care to support your healing every step of the way.
Why Choose Minimally Invasive Treatment?
The minimally invasive approach is at the heart of everything we do at NeuroSpine Plus. Smaller incisions mean less disruption to the muscles and tissues surrounding the spine, which translates to less post-operative pain, a reduced risk of complications, and a smoother recovery. This approach is especially important for patients who want to return to work, stay active, or simply get back to living without back pain weighing them down. You can learn more about why we prioritize this approach on our minimally invasive spine surgery blog.
Patients who are managing related conditions alongside a herniated disc, such as spinal stenosis, may also benefit from exploring our conditions page to understand how we approach care comprehensively. Conservative treatment plays an important role for many patients, and when non-surgical options are still on the table, our blog on conservative spine treatment is worth reading before making a decision about surgery.
Contact NeuroSpine Plus in Paramus, NJ
At NeuroSpine Plus, we believe that every patient deserves a clear path forward, and microdiscectomy is one of the most effective tools we have for helping people with herniated discs reclaim their quality of life. Dr. Scheid brings over two decades of surgical experience to every case, and his patient-centered approach means your care is never one-size-fits-all. With six convenient New Jersey locations, including our Paramus office at 37 West Century Road, we make it easy to access the evaluation and treatment you need close to home.
Whether you are coming to us for a second opinion or scheduling your first consultation, our team is here to guide you with honesty, precision, and a commitment to minimally invasive care. To take the first step toward relief, visit our contact form and request an appointment today.
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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.