For months I suffered with leg pain and eventually lost sensation and strength in my leg. It reached a point where I couldn't walk due to the pain. Like you I had been to a chiropractor, physiotherapist, gp, and the hospital with no relief. Eventually, an Orthopedic surgeon sent me for MRI, I had herniation between l4 and l5. I then had an Endoscopic Disectomy 2 days later. As soon as I awoke from the procedure my pain was completely gone. I have no stitches either. When you are living with debilitating pain, you will do any procedure the doctor recommends, but it was the best decision I have made
I am 14 post OP minimal invasive- Bandscheiben L4-L5 and spinalkanalstenose-I have such pain from Po going down both legs- didn’t you have any nerve pain? So happy for your recovery!
Im scheduled for this procedure in netcare, i really cannot wait, been bedridden for 2 and a half years! The pain is unbearable, u gave me hope! Thank u
I suffered L5 , had back pain, left hip pain, and I had numbness on my left leg from hip to toe. This is the 3rd day after my surgery . I hope, people who have this same problem will have a speedy recovery. Love u All ❤❤❤ Allah with Us.
I just had this procedure done today for the 2nd time. I herniated twice in my right L5S1. The feeling waking up from surgery and being pain free is so amazing
@@sophies.9907 i was told i only had a 10% change of recurrence. we have no idea what i did to herniate it a second time and my surgeon said that sometimes it just happens 😫
I had L4-L5 microdisectomy yesterday morning and came home around 8hrs later. Already I can move my left leg and hip a lot more than I could before the surgery, my balance is better now I can stand on my left foot like a normal person lol and that evil nerve pain is finally gone… it’s been a long 4 yrs waiting for this operation in England but so far I am super happy and couldn’t have wished for anything to be any better! Slow recovery and do everything we are told to do and hopefully in 12 weeks time all will be a perfect as can be! My injury was caused by an accident at work so the injury was caught very quickly but the 4yrs was soul destroying so here’s hoping the only way is up from here! I hope you feel as amazing as possible and fully recover x
How are you feeling? I am so sorry to hear how badly you have been affected and for the long wait times. It is a crippling affliction, I am thinking of you and sending the best vibes for a great recovery.
@@MegsHollis Hey! Sorry for the delayed reply, I’ve only just seen your reply. Yeah in terms of general well being I feel so much better, all the combinations of pain pills and anti-inflammatory medication had me feeling like a zombie pretty much 24/7 so my head feels so much clearer. In terms of strength I feel a lot lot stronger, I never realised before how much my core strength was effected by the injury so that’s been amazing! I now have rotation in the left hip joint which was non existent before and can straighten my left leg fully where as before I could only get to around 40%. I had a couple of hospital visits due to my wound opening up slightly (couldn’t rest as much as required due to having my little boy) but after being restitched and a course of antibiotics all is well and the scar is well formed now 😊 Had a follow up appointment with the surgeon around 3 weeks ago and he said he’s really happy with the healing process and he’s satisfied that the operation was a full success. I explained I was still getting odd bouts of numbness in certain toes after walking and he believes there may be some nerve damage because of how long the period was between injury and surgery so that’s something I’ll have for the rest of my life but to be honest I’m just relieved that the constant everyday nerve pain is no longer terrorising me 😊 I’m still having physio which I think will be required for the next few months but overall yeah I could not be happier! How are you getting on now? Hope everything is as amazing as possible for you 😊
@@MegsHollis Well... Unfortunately I re herniated my disc during my 6 week recovery and need a second surgery (discectomy and laminectomy.) But truly, from the bottom of my heart, on my worst days when the pain was just on another level, I'd watch your videos just to feel a sense of normalcy and to feel like someone else was with me. I needed to know I wasn't alone. Maybe it's the beautiful accent... not gonna lie, it definitely helps lol 😁😁 ok all compliments aside, Even though I'm going to go through it again, your videos did and will continue to give me immense comfort and hope. Thank you so much. You seem like such a kind genuine person and you deserve a life and most definitely a wonderful marriage without pain. God ... it's hard sometimes to stay positive but I wish you a pain free future. Thank you so so much for your videos.
I am on day 9 of the recovery process. Very different story as I had my 1st microdiscectomy at age 35 but then got pregnant 6months post surgery (sooo yes the surgery worked 😂😇 too well) not a full recovery and went up 50lbs and baby grew towards my back and sat on my spine. I was in bed rest the last 2 months pregnancy. Wait at least 1 year before getting pregnant. Mine wasn’t planned at all but God has funny ways of unraveling your plans. I’m turning 43yo today 🎉
Nice video! I had emergency surgery 9 weeks ago on my L4/L5. I woke up and was in leg paralysis, went to the doc who sent me to the surgeon at the hospital and the next morning at 0700 I was under the knife. All went well and im dealing with recovery. I wasn't told what to expect with recovery and I guess it is ok that way. Im dealing with nerve issues in my legs. i went back to the doc and she told meI could have nerve issues and muscle spasm up to 6 months after surgery. I feel great so far at 9 weeks post surgery. Every day feels better than the last. So for anyone going to have this surgery look at up to 6 month recovery. :)
Are you back to living your previous lifestyle 6 months after the surgery? I'm 5 days post-op, and like you I'm young and active. Trying to get a realistic perspective on when I should be able to think about being 100%. Obviously I know it's going to take a while, but I can't find any specifics. @@MegsHollis
Can I ask has your nerves calmed down in your ĺeg & did you have leg issues for along time before your surgery,I'm 10 days post op,have nerve pain,spasms,cramps in leg but I had the leg issues along time before 🙈the longer the nerves were compressed the longer it wil take to heal,I'm walking 15 mins 3 times a day outside & obviously indoors after that,short walks in distance every few hours keep my spasms away...walked 1.6 miles few days ago.oh boy j was off my feet for near 3 days with spasms in leg...hamstring 🙈🙈
@@margaretrollinson6881that's way too much 😮 does your surgeon know about this. I had spasms shooting pains and I had bad stability. For a few years..I already had 3 cervical fusions. 2010 bothched my surgery lied to me. So 4 yrs later a reviin 8 hrs didn't help at all. 2018 I had to find someone to help me...I was almost paralyzed on my right side and I investigated a surgeon talked to his patients in waiting room to. I got great feedback. He fixed my neck but I never knew my whole right side was beat up due to neck out of commission. So it got so bad my lumbar was compensating due to my neck being messed up and it went right down to my lumbar and my feet had numbness I had neuropathy do not play around with your recovery
Hi Megs , great video thanks, I am six weeks post surgery, it would be really interesting to hear an update on your recovery if you could. It would maybe offer an insight as to what to expect. Best regards and best of luck.
Thank you. I think I was meant to watch this video. I go for surgery Tuesday morning and have been so anxious, having panic attacks, etc. I'm 27, all I have had done is wisdom teeth removal. I'm hoping all goes well as I have been somewhat rushed through the process as well. I'm getting married soon and this has all been so stressful and mentally taxing.
Omg Kendra!!! I am thinking of you 💜💜💜 The surgery will all be behind you soon and you can focus on recovery and having your life back! ✨ This too shall pass 😘 Sending all the healing vibes your way x
I feel you girly! I’m 25 and I have a discectomy L5-S1 in 2 weeks and I’m terrified…. I know you posted 8 months ago but I hope you’re doing well after it!!
I am 35 and currently waiting to find out if i can get approved for this surgery, i have 3 herniated discs after general degradation according to the docs (i think it was probably result of a series of small injuries too over the years) so in a really similar situation. The pain is really life altering, i just want to get back to being active. Thank you so much for sharing your experience ❤
Ah man Laurie, I’m so sorry to hear you are going through this. Chronic pain is indescribable and can make you feel very isolated. I hope you are able to get an answer soon and pray you make a speedy recovery. The sooner you are able to get it behind you the sooner you’ll be on the road to recovery ❤️🩹
I’m 42 years old. I go for a L4-L4 protrusion discectomy of next week in Calgary at Horizon surgical. Very nervous but excited as well. It is $19k because our crappy Ontario public healthcare doesn’t offer the service unless you’re very critical like in a wheelchair and it’s over a year for even an orthopaedic appointment. I feel privileged that I can afford to get this two year long pain removed, as its hindered my work on our farm. I also looked at laser surgery in florida but it was over $30k U.S!
Oh my goodness Trevor that is astronomical I’m so sorry to hear the cost! I really hope the surgery is an absolute gamechanger for you like it was for me! 🙏 You have got this and I’m sure you’ll be back to life as normal soon! Nothing beats not having chronic pain ❤️🩹
Surgery was three days ago and feeling great! After two years, I have zero hip and leg pain, just minor pain from the incision area. Slowly regaining my flexibility and already walking without a limp.
@@davidoliver3051 thanks for asking. I’m doing great. Doing heavy lifting farm work without issue. I sometimes have minor leg pain from bumpy tractors, but is gone by morning.
I am also a young person who recently had a disc prolapse and just like you I had the similar emotions in the hospital regarding my marriage, etc. Also, I too had a tonsillectomy when i was much younger. Thank you for this video!
Omg that is uncanny! Update (and I totally owe everyone a video): I had a wonderful, painfree wedding. It was a huge relief, and I am back to 100% now.
I was looking for a video list this. Thank you so much for sharing! My dad got 2 different opinions of either a discectomy or laminectomy from 2 different doctors-- but I think I am leaning towards a discectomy more now. Thank you for sharing your story!
@@HereWeGoruff Depends on the location of the herniation, mainly, but also on technique. In the vast majority of cases, some type of bone cutting is required to access the herniation. Ideally, a hole (laminotomy) is enough, but removing the lamina either wholly (laminectomy) or partially (hemi-) may be required.
Thank you so much for sharing! I wanna cry watch your video I have so many emotions with how hard this is! I gave birth and developed soooo many issues. After a year of begging for help and seeing like 6 doctors I finally was diagnosed with a herniated disc. This has been such a hard journey. Nearly 15 months later I finally got a steroid spinal injection (today). They said if it does not help I will need the micro discectomy. Your video was very informative and I was able to relate to you a lot!!
I just had my second spine surgery. Ive had herniated discs L4 L5, L5 S1 for 20+ years. My first surgery they said one of them wasnt bad enough to worry about yet and just geound and chiseled one of them away some. I was in worse pain right after and it got worse steadily and quickly. A little over 2 years later i went to a large hospital and had this surgery. They removed both discs, spread my spine back apart and installed rods and screws. The dirst place was some ortho Neuro facility that botchwd my surgery. I believe they did what they did with the intention of being able to do a second maybe even a third surgery. RESEARCH who you are letting cut your spine open. Im only a couple weeks out and still in excruciating pain but it feels like theres room in my spine for the stuff that belongs in there. I dont think ill ever be pain free but it seems like ill be in 30% less pain once healed. Id highly recommend choosing a large, state of the art hospital in the city. I cqnt say this enough. Ive been absolutely miserable the last couple years. Also, they discovered i had cancer that hadn't been found by anyone else. I was attempting to get emergency surgery at riverside hospital in columbus oh for my back in November. They did a cat scan and discovered a mass on my stomach. They wouldn't do the surgery until it was treated and i was cleared by radiation. Who knows how long it wouldve gone untreated if i sidnt go to the city. The only symptom i really noticed was throwing up randomly and not having an appetite. I thought both were just because i was in so much pain from my back. I fuess i went on an adhd rant there but yeah... Do your research research research before letting anyone touch your spine. Good luck!
Thank you so much for the sweet comment Jaz! I feel like we gas light ourselves into not asking for help and trying to push through the pain. I really hope the injection can help you. The surgery is a last resort because no one wants to have a surgeon fiddling with their spine but if you find the right people to help you I’m sure you can go through a process of elimination and find relief. Thinking of you 😊 Moms are the real heroes in this world 💞
This video was very comforting. Thank you for posting it. I’m 48 and will be having a discectomy here in the U.S. for my L5 S1 disc herniation sometime before the end of the year. I am so anxious. Been putting it off for a while, but I’m at my breaking point with the pain and complete disruption of life. Side note, but has anyone ever told you that you remind them of Princess Catherine? 😄
AHHHH this is the sweetest comment ever, thank you! Psssht I wish re: Princess Catherine, lol! I hope your surgery was one ENORMOUS success, please post an update when you can.
Miranda Don’t be scared, go for it. I just had mine done after ending up in ER, here in California. Read my comment. Suffering excruciating pain for weeks or months eats away your livelihood, it’s both emotionally & physically debilitating. Good luck with your surgery, technology has advanced so much in the medical field that these are like routine minor not so invasive procedures.
@@MegsHollis I’m 5 weeks post op (it was rescheduled a couple of times because my surgeon was sick) and am doing pretty well! It’s been a bit of a mental marathon for sure with a lot of back and forth days, but I think it was a success. Surgery was a breeze, though and my surgical team was amazing. Hoping and praying I can get back to normal living in the next few weeks! Thank you for responding!
@@MB-wx4gphow are you doing now? I’m 45, very fit, and had a L5/1 microdiscectomy two weeks ago. I felt improvement almost right away, but then day 4 the pain in my leg slowly came back and then worse. I was in tears most days and nothing helped whereas at least walking or laying flat helped prior. At my follow up he said this was actually normal for some. He prescribed a short-term steroid which has helped a little. What did you mean by mental hurdles and such. I’d love to see if your experience was similar and if there’s hope for me. Thx ❤
Thank you for posting your experience. I just went thru this and after months of chronic excruciating pain of my left glute, hip, side of upper thigh and side of my calf, unable to sit, or drive or sit on the toilet, I ended up in 2 ER’s. First one prescribed Narcotic based pain killer (which didn’t even help ease the pain in reality) & steroids. After 24 hrs I ended up going to another hospital ER, they admitted me, sent me to MRI scanning & diagnosed a herniated disc L3-L4. A micro discectomy surgery was performed, waking up from surgery was very smooth, no nausea, no vomiting, no pains whatsoever! But my recovery was very slow when it came to movement, walking with a walker, sitting, being able to use the bathroom, dressing myself etc. I barely needed any painkillers besides a regular dose of ibuprofen or Tylenol. Benefited a lot from muscle relaxants, to stop cramps on my legs. But my muscles were weak and I was kept in the hospital for 5-6 days post surgery.
This sounds all so scary Sophie 😵💫 I’m so sorry you had to go through all of this but really glad you had a successful surgery, what an absolute blessing!
@@dillonyeo6982 quite a while, I unfortunately couldn’t get physiotherapy, so sometimes I still get it even 7months post surgery. Magnesium is not helping me much and it causes me very very frequent bowl movements. So I don’t like taking it. But I’m also guilty of not drinking enough water. So I’m trying to drink enough and exercising (walking an hour a day).
Well I postponed the surgery as I have been getting better lately. I have done all the paperwork should it re herniate. I'm set if and when it ever happens again.
I've had severe pain on my left side. Sitting, sleeping, everything hurts. My MRI looked like yours. The disc is protruding onto my nerves and i have a Microdiscectomy scheduled (in 4 weeks). Pain has been 24/7 for about 3 months now. Your videos are very encouraging. Excited for the future!
I had a microdiscectomy for my L5-S1 2 weeks ago. I was walking within 2 hours, I didn't need any pain meds orher than Tylenol for about 3-4 days and my nerve pain was 95% gone. I cant wait to return to golf, rock climbing and lifting after a year of barely being able to do any of it. I'm glad i waited since these issues can resolve on their own (and i even had this resolve on it's own a few years ago) but the surgery was incredibly easy and my recovery has been so smooth.
@sabogalmanuela4909 I was terrified and literally the worst part was the grogginess after waking up from the anesthesia. Even that wore off so incredibly quickly. I'm 12.5 weeks out now and other than a couple of flare ups (which were also terrifying) I have no pain/mobility issues. I've been lightly lifting at the gym for 5 weeks and I'm about to start golfing this weekend with a plan to begin rock climbing next week. I'm still surprised I'm able to sit without pain and when you wake up you'll feel like a new person in a week or so!
I have to get an endoscopic microdiscectomy at the L3to L5. Right now, they found a herniated disc on the left L3L4 and right L4L5. I'm terrified. Thank you for sharing your experience.
Im in europe and Ive been through exactly the same as you I stayed in the hospital for 3 nights The first night after the surgery was the worst in my life but once I stood up, things started to get better Im now home for a couple of days and I feel very confident and Im able to have short walks out already. Keep up the good spirit
For anyone considering this: the best prep for surgery is to BE FIT, especially back, abs and lower body muscle strength, but also cardio. Incidentally, working on those things can in some cases resolve the herniation on its own - and those are also key part of the post op regime post the initial 4-6 week recovery period.
heard the doc at best practice health say herniated disc 2 years later surgery vs non .. you can't tell the difference. so if you are willing to go through the ups and downs of the non surgery route and do the right things to help your body heal.. you certainly will get better.. I'm about 2 months into L4 L5 prolapse and after many challenging weeks of chronic sciatica and the physical and mental struggles that go with it .I finally made a breakthrough 2 weeks ago .. my sciatica is nearly non existent and all pain is recentralised into my lumbar.. a key progress point..im cautious but happy and confident that I will heal naturally.. so far so good 😊
Hello, your video is very informative and gives positive vibes to look forward to recovery. I watched it before I had my own months before. And now I am 1 week post op Microdiscectomy at L4/L5 due to a very large disc herniation. So far my experience has been a bliss, although I was stopped to stay in hospital for 3 day due to my BP not coming up and me getting blackouts and falling and not being able to basically even sit up in bed. I even experienced loss of sensation of my bladder as a side effect of the anesthesia and had to be catheterized. But I am home now Thank God! However I'm on crutches, and thats one thing you didnt mention in your video. Do you know if this is normal, how long should I be using crutches (even if i should, im so unsure)? I'm mainly laying down in bed, due to have my surgical staples removed and wound checked next week. So sometimes i feel a sharp pain in the incision site and struggle to find a comfortable position to lay in when i get tried of sleeping on right. I'm scared to lay on my left side as thats where my herniated disc was mostly sticking out as well the middle. Can you elaborate on the crutches and also i feel like am resting too much or am i supposed to rest like this for 6 weeks initial. Please do respond. Otherthan all that, so far my surgery is a success 🙏 🙌 Thanks to اللہ. I have no scaitica pain. Take care on your own journey of recovery too 😊
Thank you for the detailed feedback. It’s good to hear and compare what others are going through. I wasn’t given a corset (brace) to wear post surgery. Mine was L3-L4.
I started suffering a sharp pain in my right leg from end november, that blew up into a full blown eletricity shooting down my legs kind of pain. I went from climbing 12 flights of stairs and going on 3-4km walks on a whim to fighting tear inducing pain to get out of a chair. my L3-L4 disc had tore open and the contents were cutting, not compressing, into my nerve bunch. I finally got the surgery after 5 months of debilitating pain, on march 12th, and to say that i nearly cried from being able to feel my legs instead of searing pain, is an understatement. I have shingles and right leg numbness, which the doctor said is due to microtears in my nerve bundle from god knows how long of compression. But it's fixable with time and medication and a diet rich in omega 3 and 6. I have 3 months of recovery and then a strict weight loss and muscle gain regime to follow all my life, but i feel like this was my body's final straw in me never taking care of my health. Knowing i was weeks away from full paralysis has instilled enough fear to keep my body in a 110 percent shape now.
@@MegsHollis I am indeed much better now, thank you so much. Currently wearing the same belt you are wearing in the video. Started driving but it's a bit hard after 3 months of no driving and extremely weakened legs. I hope you are doing well and better yourself. How is it all in the long run? do you have any residual pains or weakness?
Hi can i ask how was your leg after you took your first drive,did it cramp up at all & how long was your nerves compressed for before your surgery..& do u mind sharing what exercises u do to strengthen ur leg... Thanku 🙂
@@margaretrollinson6881 first drive was intense. I kid you not, it took me all my energy to be able to drive. The back area did cramp up ever so slightly.
Thank you so much for sharing your experience, I’m only 25 and I’m getting microdiscectomy in about 2 weeks. L4-L5 herniated disc which I already got surgery on in 2013 when I was just 15, it was due to a fall (physical trauma) and sadly it has become a weak spot ever since. Gonna keep my head up and soldier on 🙏
Thank you for your video. It provided some needed insight into the experience from a patient’s point of view. I saw my doctor today, and I’ve decided to schedule the surgery. Unfortunately, I’ll need to wait 2 1/2 months while living in moderate pain. I just had an epidural steroid injection (my second), and I need to wait six weeks to have the surgery due to that. Then, there’s a fabulous vacation we’ve planned and paid for. I need to wait until after that vacation. I hope you have recovered successfully and are happily married now, enjoying tennis and running and all your daily activities pain free.
Thank you so much for watching Dan 💞 I’m so sorry to hear that you have to have the surgery. It’s not fun but neither is being in pain 🥲🥹 I hope that you can let your hair down on holiday and then look forward to downtime after that!!! Books, chocolate and treats will get you through anything 🍀 all the best and hope you can heal up soon ✨
Hi tapping in, I had the procedure two days ago and immediately felt relief, just pressure/soreness around the entry point. I promise recovery is a lot less pain than what you are experiencing with a compressed nerve. For context my sciatic pain traveled down my leg, into my knee and ankle. I had numbness in my last three toes and without heavy medication I pretty much felt like I had a knife in my lower back that was being twisted. I could not properly sit in a seat nor walk without a terrible limp and was forces to lay in one position on my back, so i had many restless nights. Not to mention I had a 8month old crawling baby that I could no longer lift nor protect from immediate danger. If you are in the DMV area consider Precision Orthopedics, Dr. Yu!
You are describing me atm to a T except for a baby. How in the world did you go through this with a baby??! My heart goes out to you. Im so glad you have relief now. I have surgery this Thursday.
@@djcconsults There’s no 100% guarantee in any operation, but I think if you’re in a real bad way I would proceed. In NZ we sign a consent form and basically advised of that. National Health pays in our country in many cases.
Hi Megan, thanks for this. I am currently lying in excruciating pain and will be telling my doctor I would like to ahead with the surgery and I am feeling really nervous. I wanted to ask how you are doing today. How long has it been since recovery and are things going well?
I really hope you were able to have the surgery and that you have had some relief from the terribly debilitating pain. Sending all the healing juju your way!
Thank you for sharing this honest assessment of your experience. Like you I was convinced I needed a hip replacement but it’s turns out I have a L4/L5 nerve root compression. My consultant has recommended surgery. I am a very nervous patient but the pain, numbness and tingling are getting worse so I think I am going to have to bite the bullet.
I’m so sorry to hear you are having similar symptoms 🥹 the tingling is the absolute worst feeling! I hope you can come to a decision that’s right for you and be on the road to recovery!
I will make a follow up video ASAP! Thank you so much for the care and concern. I am back to 100%, such a relief. Will share more soon! Sending lots of love x
I have lot of pain this timeI m gothrough minimally invasive spine surgery after 2 weeks in india.. Hope i m recovering well.. And than u so much for ur update.. I love u😁😁
wait, just realized your 33? Im same age, dealing with similar issues right now. gone the meds route, its not working. Now waiting on x-ray results, been referred for MRI, just today called fam doc to rush the MRI since Im off work 3rd day in last few weeks. been dealing with excrutiating shooting leg pain since September, ive thrown out my back a few times in the last few years as well.
I know I’m totally late to the party, but your story is eerily similar to mine especially similar to mine. Particularly how long it is taking (and still taking) to get the right doctor, right scans and right treatment. I would love to connect with you if you are willing!
I'm actively debating going through with this surgery or keeping going on (bandaid solution) cortisone injections. Mostly out of fear! So sick of living in pain and I need to get my life back on track and play with my kids.
Ah man it’s such a tough decision to make! Surgery feels like a dramatic option but I’m sure it’s wearing you down not having any resolve. I hope you start to feel better one way or another, back pain is too awful 💞
Hi you are so sweet how you describe the whole process! I am 8 days post OP / like you double Disc OP plus canalstenose! I was in hospital 5 days- I am in Germany! Why exactly are we supposed not to sit? I was at the doctor and had to sit almost an hour- I was so worried I was doing something detrimental to healing my back. Did you have to walk several times a day each 10 min? Or any exercises? How long did it take to go to physio? Thanks so much- hope you are getting married soon!♥️
I had a full physio programme starting 5 weeks post surgery to about 12 weeks post surgery :) I went weekly initially and then fortnightly. I also swam a lot once I was cleared to do so, which to be honest brought me the most comfort as I felt painfree in the water long before I felt painfree on land ;) I got married and it was amazing!!! Will do a follow up video soon. I really hope your recovery is going well - remember to be kind to yourself on the bad days.
Can you tell me what full physio program entails? I will start swimming in our gorgeous swim club on the lake 1. Mai! And physio 2x a week after 5 weeks. When were you able to shower without a plaster? Thanks so much for taking the time to answer- I still have a lot of pain from the Po down both legs- how long did you have that nerve pain? Or did you have it?
Hello, thank you for sharing this I have my L4 and L5 that is also messed up. I keep hearing mixed reviews on the surgery that you’ll be good at first and later on they have to go back in and have more surgery done. How are you feeling now?
Thank you Carlos for the message! I’m sorry to hear you are having issues with your back 🥹 I sadly was in so much pain and discomfort that I didn’t feel like I had any other option at that stage. I am glad I went through with it but don’t even want to underestimate spine surgery! It’s a horrible ordeal. I am back to running and no longer have a loss of feeling in my legs, so it’s a huge improvement for me. I still battle with hip pain but no where the same as the severity of the back pain.
@@MegsHollis Thank you. Can you please give me the information on the hospital and your surgeon please. I’m so happy that you are better. Hope to be there soon.
Hey, Megs. Any update you have from a month out until now would be so helpful! How has your recovery gone since your last video?? My surgery is coming up in a few weeks and I’m supposed to travel 1 month after… Super nervous I wont be recovered enough to go…
@@jennyloresca2600 Jenny, I’m 3 months post surgery now and maybe Megs had a totally different experience but it was WELLLLLLL worth it and I healed up great!! This week I can resume normal workout routines with some considerations for the types and intensity of some specific weightlifting stuff… I have a little residual numbness in my leg and foot but it doesn’t bother me much at all and the surgeon said it will likely improve slowly over the next six months. Otherwise I’m back to normal!! Good luck with your surgery - it’ll hopefully help a TON!!
Hi - thanks for your video. I was wondering how you would get on if you lived alone in the recovery period. I have had 11 surgeries on my spine but had either my now ex-husband or children living with me. I was diagnosed last week with a herniated L4/5 disc. I now live alone and don’t think that my 2kg chihuahua or my 19 year old cat will be much help. Very stressed. 😢
Ah you poor thing Suzanne. That is too terrible to hear. Funnily enough I saw someone online had bought a contraption to help them pick up a sock - that was the main thing was not being able to pick up something I had dropped. And maybe a fully stocked fridge, freezer or make UberEats your best friend? Thinking of you and hope it goes well! 💐
So I had two discs replaced in my neck in the us. I had one night in the icu only because I was the last procedure of the day. I’ll be having the same surgery you had in the next few weeks. It will be outpatient we are unlucky with our system but it is what it is
Good day Megs! I had a similar op (L4/L5 Lumbar Discectomy) approx 4 weeks ago, so I presume it's still 'early days'.... I'm 59, but was/am a very fit athlete, so my body was in good shape pre-op. However, at this moment (4 weeks post-op), I still have some groin/leg pain. I know I need to be patient (forgive the pun 😂), but how much/what pain/discomfort did you still have after the op? And for how long did it last?
I just posted an update video :) Hope it answers all your questions! I hope your recovery is swift and that you start feeling better ASAP and that the surgery was a huge success :) Rest up!
I’m really considering surgery. The doctor wants me to take the epidural shot first and if it doesn’t work then surgery will be the next step. I’m very scared, I have never had surgery but I’m in so much pain I kinda want to get it over with.
I'm facing the same issues now and I'm seeing a mixed reviews some of them pretty horrific regarding what happened after the operation so I'm wondering how are you doing now?
Oh no! I am uploading a one year update shortly 🤗 (in the next day or so) with a full update. I hope you can find a surgeon/medical team you can trust and that can get you back on track asap!
Just had consultation to get this procedure done im on a waiting list for 3 to 6 months, bear in mind my pain started around September 2022, nervous of the actual operation but like you more nervous of the recovery. I'm a stay home mum who does absolutely everything at home, and will be total chaos if I have to rely on my partner and 2 teen boys to help out. Thanks for the advice really helpful. Just wondering g if you had any of the symptoms I'm getting problems going to toilet, leg cramp numb hands just to name a few.
Ah this is so tough! My main symptom was loss of feeling in my legs, I couldn’t feel above my ankle and wasn’t confident to drive as had lost strength in my feet. But your symptoms sound horrible and definitely the same as what I understand are typical for L4/L5 as the specialist did ask me about bladder issues and loss of feeling when I consulted with him. Thinking of you and hope the wait flies by!
Not as long a wait as expected they rang a week ago booking me in for June, so its happening sooner than I thought. Thanks for the reply much appreciated.
Thank you so much for your time. I'm about to go through this surgery on Nov. 28th & I'm of course really nervous & scared. I may message you with questions if you don't mind. My name is Kimberly 😃.
To be scared is normal . I was like that but it was the best desicion . Mine was Nov 21 2022 . A year ago . The recovery wasn’t easy but I was very positive and follow up the instructions from my surgeon . I’m 48 . Now I can walk I can dance I can go to the gym with no pain 🥰🥰🥰❤️🤗🤗
Those of you who have had this surgery - was your nerve pain gone immediately? I had an L5/S1 Discectomy 4 weeks ago and my back currently feels exactly the same as it did before the surgery - I have the same nerve pain in my central lower back and across my hips, feels like he didn't even touch whatever is causing the issue. Could this just be because it takes time to get better or should it be more immediate?
I’m so sorry this is the case for you! I had the same as you and my sciatica pain was immediately better. I had it about 5 weeks ago. I am starting to get some weird pains on my other side now, although not as bad as before
This is me currently... cannot put socks on neither can I put my undies or pants on...I have never cried so much in my life from pain...My op is in two weeks...will update
@XX-166 It's been 2 years I've been dealing with this. It's gotten no better and only worse. I guess I'm in that 5% where the herniation doesn't heal. I've done PT and I'm not doing shots because they only kick the can down the road right? My disc is too far gone for a microdiscectomy to last any decent length of time most likely. I've talked to Dr's Across the country that do this thing called Discseal and that isnt covered by insurance and ive been out of work for 1.5yrs so 🤷♂️. I'm open to suggestions...
I have a 3mm herniated disk in my L3-L4 and my doctor won't remove it and I have permanent damage in my lower back from a really bad car accident I was stopped at at red light and a woman who was going 50mph when she rear ended me and I was hospitalized overnight for observation because I had internal bleeding and liver lacerations
Wow so many young people with back issues in USA how come ? Those problems are for aged people I’m In my 70 with few prolapse disk lower back for over 20 years no surgery been offer so far cope the best I can with pain killer But no want rush for surgery they way you people in those comment do , where I live surgeon discourage surgery as a first step , surgery is always the last option not the first We no make surgeon rich in my country e no have health insurance only public system hospital where surgery are free , and they all do if it’s very very severe no because someone have a insurance and go and go in private clinic damage more
For months I suffered with leg pain and eventually lost sensation and strength in my leg. It reached a point where I couldn't walk due to the pain. Like you I had been to a chiropractor, physiotherapist, gp, and the hospital with no relief. Eventually, an Orthopedic surgeon sent me for MRI, I had herniation between l4 and l5. I then had an Endoscopic Disectomy 2 days later. As soon as I awoke from the procedure my pain was completely gone. I have no stitches either. When you are living with debilitating pain, you will do any procedure the doctor recommends, but it was the best decision I have made
Thanks so much for the comment! I am so glad you are on the mend, it's a terrible thing to go through and a relief to be through the other side.
I am 14 post OP minimal invasive- Bandscheiben L4-L5 and spinalkanalstenose-I have such pain from Po going down both legs- didn’t you have any nerve pain? So happy for your recovery!
Im scheduled for this procedure in netcare, i really cannot wait, been bedridden for 2 and a half years! The pain is unbearable, u gave me hope! Thank u
@@mrs_bey_brkovic1777wishing you a speedy recovery. By the way if you don’t mind me asking, how much does it cost to get this surgery?
I suffered L5 , had back pain, left hip pain, and I had numbness on my left leg from hip to toe. This is the 3rd day after my surgery . I hope, people who have this same problem will have a speedy recovery. Love u All ❤❤❤ Allah with Us.
I just had this procedure done today for the 2nd time. I herniated twice in my right L5S1. The feeling waking up from surgery and being pain free is so amazing
So great to hear! I hope you keep on feeling better each day 💞
Wow amazing! I’m having my surgery June 24th. I’m looking forward to being pain free.
@@kevinb06 are you ok now?
@@meh27000 May I ask how the same disc herniated twice? That scares me now. Did you do something wrong?
@@sophies.9907 i was told i only had a 10% change of recurrence. we have no idea what i did to herniate it a second time and my surgeon said that sometimes it just happens 😫
I had L4-L5 microdisectomy yesterday morning and came home around 8hrs later.
Already I can move my left leg and hip a lot more than I could before the surgery, my balance is better now I can stand on my left foot like a normal person lol and that evil nerve pain is finally gone… it’s been a long 4 yrs waiting for this operation in England but so far I am super happy and couldn’t have wished for anything to be any better!
Slow recovery and do everything we are told to do and hopefully in 12 weeks time all will be a perfect as can be!
My injury was caused by an accident at work so the injury was caught very quickly but the 4yrs was soul destroying so here’s hoping the only way is up from here!
I hope you feel as amazing as possible and fully recover x
How are you feeling? I am so sorry to hear how badly you have been affected and for the long wait times. It is a crippling affliction, I am thinking of you and sending the best vibes for a great recovery.
How are you doing?
@@MegsHollis Hey! Sorry for the delayed reply, I’ve only just seen your reply.
Yeah in terms of general well being I feel so much better, all the combinations of pain pills and anti-inflammatory medication had me feeling like a zombie pretty much 24/7 so my head feels so much clearer.
In terms of strength I feel a lot lot stronger, I never realised before how much my core strength was effected by the injury so that’s been amazing!
I now have rotation in the left hip joint which was non existent before and can straighten my left leg fully where as before I could only get to around 40%.
I had a couple of hospital visits due to my wound opening up slightly (couldn’t rest as much as required due to having my little boy) but after being restitched and a course of antibiotics all is well and the scar is well formed now 😊
Had a follow up appointment with the surgeon around 3 weeks ago and he said he’s really happy with the healing process and he’s satisfied that the operation was a full success. I explained I was still getting odd bouts of numbness in certain toes after walking and he believes there may be some nerve damage because of how long the period was between injury and surgery so that’s something I’ll have for the rest of my life but to be honest I’m just relieved that the constant everyday nerve pain is no longer terrorising me 😊
I’m still having physio which I think will be required for the next few months but overall yeah I could not be happier!
How are you getting on now?
Hope everything is as amazing as possible for you 😊
I've watched a lot of videos and this is by far the most comforting, thank you 🙏
This is such a sweet comment, TYSM. I hope you feel better ASAP x
@@MegsHollis Well... Unfortunately I re herniated my disc during my 6 week recovery and need a second surgery (discectomy and laminectomy.) But truly, from the bottom of my heart, on my worst days when the pain was just on another level, I'd watch your videos just to feel a sense of normalcy and to feel like someone else was with me. I needed to know I wasn't alone. Maybe it's the beautiful accent... not gonna lie, it definitely helps lol 😁😁 ok all compliments aside, Even though I'm going to go through it again, your videos did and will continue to give me immense comfort and hope. Thank you so much. You seem like such a kind genuine person and you deserve a life and most definitely a wonderful marriage without pain. God ... it's hard sometimes to stay positive but I wish you a pain free future. Thank you so so much for your videos.
you are such a brave girl , lots of wishes for your speedy recovery
Thank you so much for the kind comment Saad 🩵
I am on day 9 of the recovery process. Very different story as I had my 1st microdiscectomy at age 35 but then got pregnant 6months post surgery (sooo yes the surgery worked 😂😇 too well) not a full recovery and went up 50lbs and baby grew towards my back and sat on my spine. I was in bed rest the last 2 months pregnancy.
Wait at least 1 year before getting pregnant. Mine wasn’t planned at all but God has funny ways of unraveling your plans. I’m turning 43yo today 🎉
Nice video! I had emergency surgery 9 weeks ago on my L4/L5. I woke up and was in leg paralysis, went to the doc who sent me to the surgeon at the hospital and the next morning at 0700 I was under the knife. All went well and im dealing with recovery. I wasn't told what to expect with recovery and I guess it is ok that way. Im dealing with nerve issues in my legs. i went back to the doc and she told meI could have nerve issues and muscle spasm up to 6 months after surgery. I feel great so far at 9 weeks post surgery. Every day feels better than the last. So for anyone going to have this surgery look at up to 6 month recovery. :)
Yes 6 months feels like the magic number, I agree! Hope you are feeling 1000% better!
Are you back to living your previous lifestyle 6 months after the surgery? I'm 5 days post-op, and like you I'm young and active. Trying to get a realistic perspective on when I should be able to think about being 100%. Obviously I know it's going to take a while, but I can't find any specifics. @@MegsHollis
How have you been post op?
Can I ask has your nerves calmed down in your ĺeg & did you have leg issues for along time before your surgery,I'm 10 days post op,have nerve pain,spasms,cramps in leg but I had the leg issues along time before 🙈the longer the nerves were compressed the longer it wil take to heal,I'm walking 15 mins 3 times a day outside & obviously indoors after that,short walks in distance every few hours keep my spasms away...walked 1.6 miles few days ago.oh boy j was off my feet for near 3 days with spasms in leg...hamstring 🙈🙈
@@margaretrollinson6881that's way too much 😮 does your surgeon know about this. I had spasms shooting pains and I had bad stability. For a few years..I already had 3 cervical fusions. 2010 bothched my surgery lied to me. So 4 yrs later a reviin 8 hrs didn't help at all. 2018 I had to find someone to help me...I was almost paralyzed on my right side and I investigated a surgeon talked to his patients in waiting room to. I got great feedback. He fixed my neck but I never knew my whole right side was beat up due to neck out of commission. So it got so bad my lumbar was compensating due to my neck being messed up and it went right down to my lumbar and my feet had numbness I had neuropathy do not play around with your recovery
Hi Megs , great video thanks, I am six weeks post surgery, it would be really interesting to hear an update on your recovery if you could. It would maybe offer an insight as to what to expect. Best regards and best of luck.
It's such a pleasure Clive! I can definitely do an update video :)
Thank you. I think I was meant to watch this video. I go for surgery Tuesday morning and have been so anxious, having panic attacks, etc. I'm 27, all I have had done is wisdom teeth removal. I'm hoping all goes well as I have been somewhat rushed through the process as well. I'm getting married soon and this has all been so stressful and mentally taxing.
Omg Kendra!!! I am thinking of you 💜💜💜 The surgery will all be behind you soon and you can focus on recovery and having your life back! ✨ This too shall
pass 😘 Sending all the healing vibes your way x
I feel you girly! I’m 25 and I have a discectomy L5-S1 in 2 weeks and I’m terrified…. I know you posted 8 months ago but I hope you’re doing well after it!!
I am 35 and currently waiting to find out if i can get approved for this surgery, i have 3 herniated discs after general degradation according to the docs (i think it was probably result of a series of small injuries too over the years) so in a really similar situation. The pain is really life altering, i just want to get back to being active. Thank you so much for sharing your experience ❤
Ah man Laurie, I’m so sorry to hear you are going through this. Chronic pain is indescribable and can make you feel very isolated. I hope you are able to get an answer soon and pray you make a speedy recovery. The sooner you are able to get it behind you the sooner you’ll be on the road to recovery ❤️🩹
I’m 42 years old. I go for a L4-L4 protrusion discectomy of next week in Calgary at Horizon surgical. Very nervous but excited as well. It is $19k because our crappy Ontario public healthcare doesn’t offer the service unless you’re very critical like in a wheelchair and it’s over a year for even an orthopaedic appointment.
I feel privileged that I can afford to get this two year long pain removed, as its hindered my work on our farm.
I also looked at laser surgery in florida but it was over $30k U.S!
Oh my goodness Trevor that is astronomical I’m so sorry to hear the cost! I really hope the surgery is an absolute gamechanger for you like it was for me! 🙏 You have got this and I’m sure you’ll be back to life as normal soon! Nothing beats not having chronic pain ❤️🩹
I hope everything goes well for you and speedy recovery!!❤
Surgery was three days ago and feeling great! After two years, I have zero hip and leg pain, just minor pain from the incision area. Slowly regaining my flexibility and already walking without a limp.
Hello Trevor, It's now June 21, 2024. How are you doing now?
@@davidoliver3051 thanks for asking. I’m doing great. Doing heavy lifting farm work without issue. I sometimes have minor leg pain from bumpy tractors, but is gone by morning.
I am also a young person who recently had a disc prolapse and just like you I had the similar emotions in the hospital regarding my marriage, etc. Also, I too had a tonsillectomy when i was much younger. Thank you for this video!
Did you have minamally invasive surgery
@@gillianlawman6714 yes!
Omg that is uncanny! Update (and I totally owe everyone a video): I had a wonderful, painfree wedding. It was a huge relief, and I am back to 100% now.
I was looking for a video list this. Thank you so much for sharing! My dad got 2 different opinions of either a discectomy or laminectomy from 2 different doctors-- but I think I am leaning towards a discectomy more now. Thank you for sharing your story!
I thought a discectomy and laminectomy went together ..?
I’d rather them not remove any bone. If anyone has more I for please help explain ..✨
it may depend the location of the herniation. they want to do both lam and discectomy on my l5-s1@@HereWeGoruff
@@HereWeGoruff Depends on the location of the herniation, mainly, but also on technique. In the vast majority of cases, some type of bone cutting is required to access the herniation. Ideally, a hole (laminotomy) is enough, but removing the lamina either wholly (laminectomy) or partially (hemi-) may be required.
Thanks everyone !!! I’m still learning. ✨✨✨
Thank you so much for sharing! I wanna cry watch your video I have so many emotions with how hard this is!
I gave birth and developed soooo many issues. After a year of begging for help and seeing like 6 doctors I finally was diagnosed with a herniated disc. This has been such a hard journey. Nearly 15 months later I finally got a steroid spinal injection (today). They said if it does not help I will need the micro discectomy. Your video was very informative and I was able to relate to you a lot!!
I just had my second spine surgery. Ive had herniated discs L4 L5, L5 S1 for 20+ years. My first surgery they said one of them wasnt bad enough to worry about yet and just geound and chiseled one of them away some. I was in worse pain right after and it got worse steadily and quickly. A little over 2 years later i went to a large hospital and had this surgery. They removed both discs, spread my spine back apart and installed rods and screws. The dirst place was some ortho Neuro facility that botchwd my surgery. I believe they did what they did with the intention of being able to do a second maybe even a third surgery. RESEARCH who you are letting cut your spine open. Im only a couple weeks out and still in excruciating pain but it feels like theres room in my spine for the stuff that belongs in there. I dont think ill ever be pain free but it seems like ill be in 30% less pain once healed. Id highly recommend choosing a large, state of the art hospital in the city. I cqnt say this enough. Ive been absolutely miserable the last couple years. Also, they discovered i had cancer that hadn't been found by anyone else. I was attempting to get emergency surgery at riverside hospital in columbus oh for my back in November. They did a cat scan and discovered a mass on my stomach. They wouldn't do the surgery until it was treated and i was cleared by radiation. Who knows how long it wouldve gone untreated if i sidnt go to the city. The only symptom i really noticed was throwing up randomly and not having an appetite. I thought both were just because i was in so much pain from my back. I fuess i went on an adhd rant there but yeah... Do your research research research before letting anyone touch your spine. Good luck!
Thank you so much for the sweet comment Jaz! I feel like we gas light ourselves into not asking for help and trying to push through the pain. I really hope the injection can help you. The surgery is a last resort because no one wants to have a surgeon fiddling with their spine but if you find the right people to help you I’m sure you can go through a process of elimination and find relief. Thinking of you 😊 Moms are the real heroes in this world 💞
This video was very comforting. Thank you for posting it. I’m 48 and will be having a discectomy here in the U.S. for my L5 S1 disc herniation sometime before the end of the year. I am so anxious. Been putting it off for a while, but I’m at my breaking point with the pain and complete disruption of life. Side note, but has anyone ever told you that you remind them of Princess Catherine? 😄
Mine was on Nov 2022 best decision ❤❤❤I have my active life back and my social life too . Like you L5 s1 .
AHHHH this is the sweetest comment ever, thank you! Psssht I wish re: Princess Catherine, lol! I hope your surgery was one ENORMOUS success, please post an update when you can.
Miranda Don’t be scared, go for it. I just had mine done after ending up in ER, here in California. Read my comment. Suffering excruciating pain for weeks or months eats away your livelihood, it’s both emotionally & physically debilitating. Good luck with your surgery, technology has advanced so much in the medical field that these are like routine minor not so invasive procedures.
@@MegsHollis I’m 5 weeks post op (it was rescheduled a couple of times because my surgeon was sick) and am doing pretty well! It’s been a bit of a mental marathon for sure with a lot of back and forth days, but I think it was a success. Surgery was a breeze, though and my surgical team was amazing. Hoping and praying I can get back to normal living in the next few weeks! Thank you for responding!
@@MB-wx4gphow are you doing now? I’m 45, very fit, and had a L5/1 microdiscectomy two weeks ago. I felt improvement almost right away, but then day 4 the pain in my leg slowly came back and then worse. I was in tears most days and nothing helped whereas at least walking or laying flat helped prior. At my follow up he said this was actually normal for some. He prescribed a short-term steroid which has helped a little. What did you mean by mental hurdles and such. I’d love to see if your experience was similar and if there’s hope for me. Thx ❤
Thank you for posting your experience. I just went thru this and after months of chronic excruciating pain of my left glute, hip, side of upper thigh and side of my calf, unable to sit, or drive or sit on the toilet, I ended up in 2 ER’s. First one prescribed Narcotic based pain killer (which didn’t even help ease the pain in reality) & steroids. After 24 hrs I ended up going to another hospital ER, they admitted me, sent me to MRI scanning & diagnosed a herniated disc L3-L4. A micro discectomy surgery was performed, waking up from surgery was very smooth, no nausea, no vomiting, no pains whatsoever! But my recovery was very slow when it came to movement, walking with a walker, sitting, being able to use the bathroom, dressing myself etc. I barely needed any painkillers besides a regular dose of ibuprofen or Tylenol. Benefited a lot from muscle relaxants, to stop cramps on my legs. But my muscles were weak and I was kept in the hospital for 5-6 days post surgery.
This sounds all so scary Sophie 😵💫 I’m so sorry you had to go through all of this but really glad you had a successful surgery, what an absolute blessing!
@@MegsHollis thanks. Yes happy it’s over. Taking one day at a time and advancing everyday with my recovery.
Hey sophie, can I ask how long did it take for the cramps on your legs to stop?
@@dillonyeo6982 quite a while, I unfortunately couldn’t get physiotherapy, so sometimes I still get it even 7months post surgery. Magnesium is not helping me much and it causes me very very frequent bowl movements. So I don’t like taking it. But I’m also guilty of not drinking enough water. So I’m trying to drink enough and exercising (walking an hour a day).
@@dillonyeo6982 I replied to your question yesterday but I can’t see my comment. It’s weird
Thank you, I’m going next week. Haven’t walked in 4 weeks - so miserable and terrified.
having this exact surgery tomorrow, but with L5-S1 included in there, so. I feel Your pain!! well felt it. it hurts like hell.
Thank you for this video. I am considering this surgery and it definitely helps prepare for it. I wish you all the best with your recovery.
Thank you so much! Good luck with the big decision 🍀🤞
Thank you Megs, I'm going in next week for my microdiscetomy. I will report back how it went. Thank you for your video great job!
I hope it was a huge success 🍀🍀🍀 here’s to a speedy recovery!
Well I postponed the surgery as I have been getting better lately. I have done all the paperwork should it re herniate. I'm set if and when it ever happens again.
I've had severe pain on my left side. Sitting, sleeping, everything hurts. My MRI looked like yours. The disc is protruding onto my nerves and i have a Microdiscectomy scheduled (in 4 weeks). Pain has been 24/7 for about 3 months now. Your videos are very encouraging. Excited for the future!
Wishing you all the best for your surgery in a months time! Hoping it leaves you healthy and pain free 🤞
I had a microdiscectomy for my L5-S1 2 weeks ago. I was walking within 2 hours, I didn't need any pain meds orher than Tylenol for about 3-4 days and my nerve pain was 95% gone. I cant wait to return to golf, rock climbing and lifting after a year of barely being able to do any of it. I'm glad i waited since these issues can resolve on their own (and i even had this resolve on it's own a few years ago) but the surgery was incredibly easy and my recovery has been so smooth.
Thank u so much I’m terrified I go inn tomorrow
@sabogalmanuela4909 I was terrified and literally the worst part was the grogginess after waking up from the anesthesia. Even that wore off so incredibly quickly. I'm 12.5 weeks out now and other than a couple of flare ups (which were also terrifying) I have no pain/mobility issues. I've been lightly lifting at the gym for 5 weeks and I'm about to start golfing this weekend with a plan to begin rock climbing next week. I'm still surprised I'm able to sit without pain and when you wake up you'll feel like a new person in a week or so!
I have to get an endoscopic microdiscectomy at the L3to L5. Right now, they found a herniated disc on the left L3L4 and right L4L5. I'm terrified. Thank you for sharing your experience.
Im in europe and Ive been through exactly the same as you
I stayed in the hospital for 3 nights
The first night after the surgery was the worst in my life but once I stood up, things started to get better
Im now home for a couple of days and I feel very confident and Im able to have short walks out already.
Keep up the good spirit
For anyone considering this: the best prep for surgery is to BE FIT, especially back, abs and lower body muscle strength, but also cardio. Incidentally, working on those things can in some cases resolve the herniation on its own - and those are also key part of the post op regime post the initial 4-6 week recovery period.
Interesting. We're you able to fix your herniation with cardio and exercise ? Or do you know someone who had success that way? Thanks!!
heard the doc at best practice health say herniated disc 2 years later surgery vs non .. you can't tell the difference. so if you are willing to go through the ups and downs of the non surgery route and do the right things to help your body heal.. you certainly will get better.. I'm about 2 months into L4 L5 prolapse and after many challenging weeks of chronic sciatica and the physical and mental struggles that go with it .I finally made a breakthrough 2 weeks ago .. my sciatica is nearly non existent and all pain is recentralised into my lumbar.. a key progress point..im cautious but happy and confident that I will heal naturally.. so far so good 😊
Thanks for sharing! I hope you're doing well a year later.
I will embark on a similar "boat" in the next month or so.
Hello, your video is very informative and gives positive vibes to look forward to recovery. I watched it before I had my own months before.
And now I am 1 week post op Microdiscectomy at L4/L5 due to a very large disc herniation.
So far my experience has been a bliss, although I was stopped to stay in hospital for 3 day due to my BP not coming up and me getting blackouts and falling and not being able to basically even sit up in bed. I even experienced loss of sensation of my bladder as a side effect of the anesthesia and had to be catheterized.
But I am home now Thank God!
However I'm on crutches, and thats one thing you didnt mention in your video. Do you know if this is normal, how long should I be using crutches (even if i should, im so unsure)?
I'm mainly laying down in bed, due to have my surgical staples removed and wound checked next week. So sometimes i feel a sharp pain in the incision site and struggle to find a comfortable position to lay in when i get tried of sleeping on right. I'm scared to lay on my left side as thats where my herniated disc was mostly sticking out as well the middle.
Can you elaborate on the crutches and also i feel like am resting too much or am i supposed to rest like this for 6 weeks initial.
Please do respond.
Otherthan all that, so far my surgery is a success 🙏 🙌 Thanks to اللہ. I have no scaitica pain.
Take care on your own journey of recovery too 😊
Thank you for this with us ... Sitting in recovery post op and suddenly it all feels normal..
Appreciate the candidacy in your advice
Thank you so much Kish for such a sweet comment, I really appreciate it.
Thank you for the detailed feedback. It’s good to hear and compare what others are going through. I wasn’t given a corset (brace) to wear post surgery. Mine was L3-L4.
Hope you are recovering beaaaautifully!
Thank you, I am getting better day by day. Best wishes to you too.
I started suffering a sharp pain in my right leg from end november, that blew up into a full blown eletricity shooting down my legs kind of pain. I went from climbing 12 flights of stairs and going on 3-4km walks on a whim to fighting tear inducing pain to get out of a chair.
my L3-L4 disc had tore open and the contents were cutting, not compressing, into my nerve bunch.
I finally got the surgery after 5 months of debilitating pain, on march 12th, and to say that i nearly cried from being able to feel my legs instead of searing pain, is an understatement. I have shingles and right leg numbness, which the doctor said is due to microtears in my nerve bundle from god knows how long of compression. But it's fixable with time and medication and a diet rich in omega 3 and 6.
I have 3 months of recovery and then a strict weight loss and muscle gain regime to follow all my life, but i feel like this was my body's final straw in me never taking care of my health. Knowing i was weeks away from full paralysis has instilled enough fear to keep my body in a 110 percent shape now.
This is hard to read 🥹 I hope you are doing much better now! Sending all the healing vibes 💞
@@MegsHollis I am indeed much better now, thank you so much. Currently wearing the same belt you are wearing in the video. Started driving but it's a bit hard after 3 months of no driving and extremely weakened legs. I hope you are doing well and better yourself. How is it all in the long run? do you have any residual pains or weakness?
Hi can i ask how was your leg after you took your first drive,did it cramp up at all & how long was your nerves compressed for before your surgery..& do u mind sharing what exercises u do to strengthen ur leg...
Thanku 🙂
@@margaretrollinson6881 first drive was intense. I kid you not, it took me all my energy to be able to drive. The back area did cramp up ever so slightly.
Thank you so much for sharing your experience, I’m only 25 and I’m getting microdiscectomy in about 2 weeks.
L4-L5 herniated disc which I already got surgery on in 2013 when I was just 15, it was due to a fall (physical trauma) and sadly it has become a weak spot ever since. Gonna keep my head up and soldier on 🙏
Same surgery, same age 15 years ago, when they did it by hand. You’re going to be fine. Get a yoga mat, cat the cow and the child will save your life.
Thank you for your video. It provided some needed insight into the experience from a patient’s point of view. I saw my doctor today, and I’ve decided to schedule the surgery. Unfortunately, I’ll need to wait 2 1/2 months while living in moderate pain. I just had an epidural steroid injection (my second), and I need to wait six weeks to have the surgery due to that. Then, there’s a fabulous vacation we’ve planned and paid for. I need to wait until after that vacation. I hope you have recovered successfully and are happily married now, enjoying tennis and running and all your daily activities pain free.
Thank you so much for watching Dan 💞 I’m so sorry to hear that you have to have the surgery. It’s not fun but neither is being in pain 🥲🥹 I hope that you can let your hair down on holiday and then look forward to downtime after that!!! Books, chocolate and treats will get you through anything 🍀 all the best and hope you can heal up soon ✨
I just had mine today and this is some great info and hope for how quickly the process goes.
Rest up!!! I hope you have a smooth recovery and lots of down time 😀
Hi tapping in, I had the procedure two days ago and immediately felt relief, just pressure/soreness around the entry point. I promise recovery is a lot less pain than what you are experiencing with a compressed nerve. For context my sciatic pain traveled down my leg, into my knee and ankle. I had numbness in my last three toes and without heavy medication I pretty much felt like I had a knife in my lower back that was being twisted. I could not properly sit in a seat nor walk without a terrible limp and was forces to lay in one position on my back, so i had many restless nights. Not to mention I had a 8month old crawling baby that I could no longer lift nor protect from immediate danger.
If you are in the DMV area consider Precision Orthopedics, Dr. Yu!
I had one down in the year 2000. My recovery basically was instant, although toes felt a bit numb for a few weeks.
You are describing me atm to a T except for a baby. How in the world did you go through this with a baby??! My heart goes out to you. Im so glad you have relief now. I have surgery this Thursday.
I'm in need of this procedure but I keep reading mixed reviews some really horrible ones how are you doing now?
@@djcconsults There’s no 100% guarantee in any operation, but I think if you’re in a real bad way I would proceed. In NZ we sign a consent form and basically advised of that. National Health pays in our country in many cases.
I just posted an update video, but spoiler alert: I am doing so much better! Thanks so much for checking.
Thank you for your video.very much appreciated
You are very welcome Amy! Hope it could help x
Im only afraid because all people go under back surgery they come back few years later talking about the pain came back and needed more surgery 😢😢
Hi mam.. Happy to see you. God bless.Is the surgery was microdisectomy or endoscopy disectomy?. Thank you for replay in advance
It was neither I think! The surgeon referred to it as a discectomy.
I think he was asking if you were operated minimally invasive or endoscopic ?
Hi Megan, thanks for this. I am currently lying in excruciating pain and will be telling my doctor I would like to ahead with the surgery and I am feeling really nervous. I wanted to ask how you are doing today. How long has it been since recovery and are things going well?
I really hope you were able to have the surgery and that you have had some relief from the terribly debilitating pain. Sending all the healing juju your way!
Thank you for this.
Thank you !! Very helpful 💕
So good to hear! Thank you for the kind comment x
I prefer to know ,as in listen to people who had the op ,not the doctors
Thank you so much Christine! Yes I think former patients have a lot of value to add in their opinions!
Thank you for sharing this honest assessment of your experience. Like you I was convinced I needed a hip replacement but it’s turns out I have a L4/L5 nerve root compression. My consultant has recommended surgery. I am a very nervous patient but the pain, numbness and tingling are getting worse so I think I am going to have to bite the bullet.
I’m so sorry to hear you are having similar symptoms 🥹 the tingling is the absolute worst feeling! I hope you can come to a decision that’s right for you and be on the road to recovery!
Thanks again. Your video has definitely helped me to move forward on that journey.
@@jondavies7593 how are you doing now?
Thanks for this video! How are you feeling now? Are you back to being able to pick objects up?
Yes I am! Thanks so much for the comment James. I am almost 100%!
Thank you so much for this video. I have being putting off surgery for fear. I will like to know how your life is now , are you back to work, gym etc
I will make a follow up video ASAP! Thank you so much for the care and concern. I am back to 100%, such a relief. Will share more soon! Sending lots of love x
It’s totally still trauma! Went through similar plus a fusion a few weeks ago. Thanks for the video love :) hope youre doing well.
I have lot of pain this timeI m gothrough minimally invasive spine surgery after 2 weeks in india.. Hope i m recovering well.. And than u so much for ur update.. I love u😁😁
wait, just realized your 33? Im same age, dealing with similar issues right now. gone the meds route, its not working. Now waiting on x-ray results, been referred for MRI, just today called fam doc to rush the MRI since Im off work 3rd day in last few weeks. been dealing with excrutiating shooting leg pain since September, ive thrown out my back a few times in the last few years as well.
I really hope and pray the surgery went well for you x
Did the numbing go away? Did you get the feeling back in the areas that were going numb?
Yes I did, I am 100% now :) Will post an update video soon. Thank you so much for the support and the comment x
I know I’m totally late to the party, but your story is eerily similar to mine especially similar to mine. Particularly how long it is taking (and still taking) to get the right doctor, right scans and right treatment. I would love to connect with you if you are willing!
I'm actively debating going through with this surgery or keeping going on (bandaid solution) cortisone injections. Mostly out of fear! So sick of living in pain and I need to get my life back on track and play with my kids.
Ah man it’s such a tough decision to make! Surgery feels like a dramatic option but I’m sure it’s wearing you down not having any resolve. I hope you start to feel better one way or another, back pain is too awful 💞
Hi you are so sweet how you describe the whole process! I am 8 days post OP / like you double Disc OP plus canalstenose! I was in hospital 5 days- I am in Germany!
Why exactly are we supposed not to sit? I was at the doctor and had to sit almost an hour- I was so worried I was doing something detrimental to healing my back.
Did you have to walk several times a day each 10 min? Or any exercises? How long did it take to go to physio?
Thanks so much- hope you are getting married soon!♥️
I had a full physio programme starting 5 weeks post surgery to about 12 weeks post surgery :) I went weekly initially and then fortnightly. I also swam a lot once I was cleared to do so, which to be honest brought me the most comfort as I felt painfree in the water long before I felt painfree on land ;) I got married and it was amazing!!! Will do a follow up video soon. I really hope your recovery is going well - remember to be kind to yourself on the bad days.
Can you tell me what full physio program entails? I will start swimming in our gorgeous swim club on the lake 1. Mai! And physio 2x a week after 5 weeks. When were you able to shower without a plaster? Thanks so much for taking the time to answer- I still have a lot of pain from the Po down both legs- how long did you have that nerve pain? Or did you have it?
Hello, thank you for sharing this I have my L4 and L5 that is also messed up. I keep hearing mixed reviews on the surgery that you’ll be good at first and later on they have to go back in and have more surgery done. How are you feeling now?
Thank you Carlos for the message! I’m sorry to hear you are having issues with your back 🥹 I sadly was in so much pain and discomfort that I didn’t feel like I had any other option at that stage. I am glad I went through with it but don’t even want to underestimate spine surgery! It’s a horrible ordeal. I am back to running and no longer have a loss of feeling in my legs,
so it’s a huge improvement for me. I still battle with hip pain but no where the same as the severity of the back pain.
@@MegsHollis Thank you. Can you please give me the information on the hospital and your surgeon please. I’m so happy that you are better. Hope to be there soon.
I'm about to do my surgery in 2 weeks, I'm super nervous 😢.
How did your surgery go? So sorry for such a slow reply. I hope you are recovering up nicely! Sending all the good vibes.
I’m surprised at such a long recovery time. Was your surgery not endoscopic?
I dont think so, the surgeon just called it a discectomy!
Hey, Megs. Any update you have from a month out until now would be so helpful! How has your recovery gone since your last video?? My surgery is coming up in a few weeks and I’m supposed to travel 1 month after… Super nervous I wont be recovered enough to go…
Hi,,same situation here,,I'm going to under go surgery,,this coming month,,I'm so nervous😢,,..how are you today?
Thank you so much for the comment Jenny, I am hoping to post an updated video soon!
@@jennyloresca2600 Jenny, I’m 3 months post surgery now and maybe Megs had a totally different experience but it was WELLLLLLL worth it and I healed up great!! This week I can resume normal workout routines with some considerations for the types and intensity of some specific weightlifting stuff… I have a little residual numbness in my leg and foot but it doesn’t bother me much at all and the surgeon said it will likely improve slowly over the next six months. Otherwise I’m back to normal!! Good luck with your surgery - it’ll hopefully help a TON!!
Great video.
I'm 27, and i have the same L4,L5, and S1. I'm so nervous to do surgery 😫 😢
Thanks, i hv more confident to deal with this...
Well done! Thanks.
Hi - thanks for your video. I was wondering how you would get on if you lived alone in the recovery period. I have had 11 surgeries on my spine but had either my now ex-husband or children living with me. I was diagnosed last week with a herniated L4/5 disc. I now live alone and don’t think that my 2kg chihuahua or my 19 year old cat will be much help. Very stressed. 😢
Ah you poor thing Suzanne. That is too terrible to hear. Funnily enough I saw someone online had bought a contraption to help them pick up a sock - that was the main thing was not being able to pick up something I had dropped. And maybe a fully stocked fridge, freezer or make UberEats your best friend? Thinking of you and hope it goes well! 💐
So I had two discs replaced in my neck in the us. I had one night in the icu only because I was the last procedure of the day. I’ll be having the same surgery you had in the next few weeks. It will be outpatient we are unlucky with our system but it is what it is
Hope your surgery goes well, and that you are able to get all the rest you need!
Good day Megs!
I had a similar op (L4/L5 Lumbar Discectomy) approx 4 weeks ago, so I presume it's still 'early days'....
I'm 59, but was/am a very fit athlete, so my body was in good shape pre-op.
However, at this moment (4 weeks post-op), I still have some groin/leg pain.
I know I need to be patient (forgive the pun 😂), but how much/what pain/discomfort did you still have after the op? And for how long did it last?
I just posted an update video :) Hope it answers all your questions! I hope your recovery is swift and that you start feeling better ASAP and that the surgery was a huge success :) Rest up!
I’m really considering surgery. The doctor wants me to take the epidural shot first and if it doesn’t work then surgery will be the next step. I’m very scared, I have never had surgery but I’m in so much pain I kinda want to get it over with.
Hoping you get some relief soon, such a terrible feeling being in chronic pain and I hope you find a solution! 🤞
I just got my L4 L5 microdiscectomy done last week and I still feel pain at times behind my thigh while walking. Is this normal? I hope you reply.
I'm facing the same issues now and I'm seeing a mixed reviews some of them pretty horrific regarding what happened after the operation so I'm wondering how are you doing now?
Oh no! I am uploading a one year update shortly 🤗 (in the next day or so) with a full update. I hope you can find a surgeon/medical team you can trust and that can get you back on track asap!
Just had consultation to get this procedure done im on a waiting list for 3 to 6 months, bear in mind my pain started around September 2022, nervous of the actual operation but like you more nervous of the recovery. I'm a stay home mum who does absolutely everything at home, and will be total chaos if I have to rely on my partner and 2 teen boys to help out. Thanks for the advice really helpful. Just wondering g if you had any of the symptoms I'm getting problems going to toilet, leg cramp numb hands just to name a few.
Ah this is so tough! My main symptom was loss of feeling in my legs, I couldn’t feel above my ankle and wasn’t confident to drive as had lost strength in my feet. But your symptoms sound horrible and definitely the same as what I understand are typical for L4/L5 as the specialist did ask me about bladder issues and loss of feeling when I consulted with him. Thinking of you and hope the wait flies by!
Not as long a wait as expected they rang a week ago booking me in for June, so its happening sooner than I thought. Thanks for the reply much appreciated.
Do you have an update to this video?
Thanks so much for watching Judy! I can definitely make one :)
I am in alot of pain
Thank you so much for your time. I'm about to go through this surgery on Nov. 28th & I'm of course really nervous & scared. I may message you with questions if you don't mind. My name is Kimberly 😃.
Hope it goes well today! You’re in good hands!❤
Hi, how you do feel right now? I have the same surgery on Dec 13th
To be scared is normal . I was like that but it was the best desicion . Mine was Nov 21 2022 . A year ago . The recovery wasn’t easy but I was very positive and follow up the instructions from my surgeon . I’m 48 . Now I can walk I can dance I can go to the gym with no pain 🥰🥰🥰❤️🤗🤗
How did it go Kimberly? Hope you are okay xxx Sending all the healing vibes your way!
Those of you who have had this surgery - was your nerve pain gone immediately? I had an L5/S1 Discectomy 4 weeks ago and my back currently feels exactly the same as it did before the surgery - I have the same nerve pain in my central lower back and across my hips, feels like he didn't even touch whatever is causing the issue. Could this just be because it takes time to get better or should it be more immediate?
I’m so sorry this is the case for you! I had the same as you and my sciatica pain was immediately better. I had it about 5 weeks ago. I am starting to get some weird pains on my other side now, although not as bad as before
This is me currently... cannot put socks on neither can I put my undies or pants on...I have never cried so much in my life from pain...My op is in two weeks...will update
How are u doin now??
Still battling...my op was postponed. I no longer know what meds to take nothing is effective anymore
I cant sit at all. Can only stand for a minute or 2. And can only lie on one side. Surgery is Thursday 🤞🏻
Good luck for your surgery! I really hope it goes well and you are pain free soon 🤞
@@MegsHollis Thank you! I feel so much better 1 week post op.
L4-l5 fusion in 2 weeks due to very large herniation. I'm terrified.
Look at all possible options before you have that fusion.
@@XX-166 like?
@XX-166 It's been 2 years I've been dealing with this. It's gotten no better and only worse. I guess I'm in that 5% where the herniation doesn't heal. I've done PT and I'm not doing shots because they only kick the can down the road right? My disc is too far gone for a microdiscectomy to last any decent length of time most likely. I've talked to Dr's Across the country that do this thing called Discseal and that isnt covered by insurance and ive been out of work for 1.5yrs so 🤷♂️. I'm open to suggestions...
Thinking of you! I really hope you have a super successful surgery and all of your pain/discomfort can be a thing of the past soon 🤗✨🌻
@MegsHollis Thank you sister. 👊🤍
ALIF surgery is in the future (years)..... no if's and's or butt's about it.
I’m 34, herniated my disc at 33 and had my surgery yesterday. Looking for good videos and post recovery advice
Well done on getting through the worst part! I hope it’s only up from here ✨
Hi, how did your surgery went? I will be getting a epidural and If it’s not successful then surgery will be an option. I’m so scared
Was yours endoscopic??
I have a 3mm herniated disk in my L3-L4 and my doctor won't remove it and I have permanent damage in my lower back from a really bad car accident I was stopped at at red light and a woman who was going 50mph when she rear ended me and I was hospitalized overnight for observation because I had internal bleeding and liver lacerations
This is too dreadful to read, people can be so careless. I am so sorry that you had to go through this.
herniated disc can not fix complete by discectiny,, fussion surgery may be necessary after years,,,
Wow so many young people with back issues in USA how come ? Those problems are for aged people
I’m
In my 70 with few prolapse disk lower back for over 20 years no surgery been offer so far cope the best I can with pain killer
But no want rush for surgery they way you people in those comment do , where I live surgeon discourage surgery as a first step , surgery is always the last option not the first
We no make surgeon rich in my country e no have health insurance only public system hospital where surgery are free , and they all do if it’s very very severe no because someone have a insurance and go and go in private clinic damage more