The MRI to my understanding revealed a large herniated disc at L5-S1. I assume that the physician ordered an epidural injection and between that and some rest, your pain disappeared. That is very good. Make sure you have no motor weakness as can happen with a large herniated disc compressing the S1 root. Can you stand on one leg (the leg that is affected) and lift up your heel 10 times without significant fatigue? This tests the gastroc-soleus muscle (calf muscle). If you are not sure about weakness, perform the same maneuver on the “good leg” to compare.
If you notice weakness, bring this to your surgeon’s attention. It is my opinion that if there is weakness present, the nerve will need to be decompressed surgically. If there is no weakness- so much the better. Only 30% of herniated discs need to be surgically removed. Expect about 4-6 months for full recovery.
Dr. Corenman
PLEASE REMEMBER, THIS FORUM IS MEANT TO PROVIDE GENERAL INFORMATION ON SPINE ANATOMY, CONDITIONS AND TREATMENTS. TO GET AN ACCURATE DIAGNOSIS, YOU MUST VISIT A QUALIFIED PROFESSIONAL IN PERSON.
Donald Corenman, MD, DC is a highly-regarded spine surgeon, considered an expert in the area of neck and back pain. Trained as both a Medical Doctor and Doctor of Chiropractic, Dr. Corenman earned academic appointments as Clinical Assistant Professor and Assistant Professor of Orthopaedic Surgery at the University of Colorado Health Sciences Center, and his research on spine surgery and rehabilitation has resulted in the publication of multiple peer-reviewed articles and two books.
