Disc herniation is a common condition and can occur either as a result of gradual wear and tear or as an acute injury to the disc.

While surgery is not needed in all cases, a microdiscectomy is considered a highly effective option that can relieve pain quickly. Dr. Scheid will determine whether or not this procedure is right for you after a thorough evaluation of your condition.

Dr. Scheid performs the microdiscectomy surgery using a special microscope to view the disc and nerves. Using this microscope provides a larger view, which, in turn, allows him to make a smaller incision. The smaller the incision, the less damage to surrounding tissue.

The goal of a microdiscectomy is to remove the disc material that is putting pressure on the nerves by the herniated disc. With the patient lying face down, the surgeon makes an incision directly over the affected disc through which he removes the damaged tissue. He then closes the small incision with sutures. Patients are typically discharged the same day or the morning after an overnight stay in the hospital.

Most patients will notice significant improvements in their pain level and are satisfied with the results of their procedure. This procedure provides comparable results with shorter recovery times than an open discectomy procedure.

Patients can benefit from a customized physical therapy and exercise program during recovery to help restore strength and flexibility and to reduce recurring back pain or disc herniation. These programs usually start with walking and can progress to bicycling and swimming within a few weeks.