Sciatica and herniated disc treatment that follows the nerve, not just the scan.
Evidence-led care for leg pain, numbness, weakness and slipped disc symptoms using clinical judgment, not scan findings alone.
A herniated disc is common—but a common MRI finding does not automatically mean surgery. The key is matching the scan with your symptoms and neurological examination. Many patients improve with non-surgical care. Others benefit from targeted nerve decompression. The goal is clarity before any decision.
Sciatica Symptoms
Sciatica describes pain, numbness or tingling radiating down the leg. Symptoms vary widely—from sharp pain to burning sensation to weakness—depending on nerve compression severity and location.
Sharp leg pain
Numbness or tingling
Weakness in foot
Burning sensation
Difficulty walking
Pain in buttocks
🚨 Seek Urgent Care If You Experience:
Progressive leg weakness getting worse
Foot drop (can't lift the front of your foot)
Numbness in saddle area (buttocks, inner thighs)
Loss of bladder or bowel control
Severe weakness affecting mobility
Sudden loss of sensation in groin area
Why We Don't Just Follow the MRI
An MRI shows disc herniation, bulging, and canal narrowing. However, many people have these findings without any pain. Conversely, patients can have severe symptoms with minimal MRI changes. Dr. Narula correlates imaging with your actual neurological exam and symptoms.
The Real Picture
- Neurological examination findings
- Actual symptoms you're experiencing
- How symptoms affect daily life
- Duration and progression pattern
- Response to initial treatment
What MRI Shows
- Disc herniation or bulging
- Canal narrowing severity
- Nerve compression degree
- Location of the problem
- Associated degenerative changes
Conservative Treatment First
Many disc herniations improve over 6-12 weeks with non-surgical care. Most patients start here before considering surgery.
Medications
- Anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
- Muscle relaxants for spasm
- Neuropathic pain medications
- Short-term pain management
Physical Therapy
- Strengthening exercises for core
- Flexibility and stretching routines
- Posture correction techniques
- Activity modification guidance
Interventional Options
- Epidural steroid injections
- Nerve root blocks
- Facet joint injections
- Targeted symptom relief
When Surgery May Be Right
After 6-8 weeks of conservative care, if pain remains severe and disabling, or if neurological symptoms progress, surgery may offer relief.
Severe, disabling pain for 6+ weeks
Progressive leg weakness or numbness
Foot drop or balance problems
Bladder/bowel function loss
Clear nerve compression on imaging
Failure of conservative care
The Surgical Goal: Nerve Decompression
The objective is to remove disc material pressing on the nerve. This can be done through:
Microscopic Discectomy
Traditional approach using an operating microscope for precision. Works well for most herniations.
- Proven technique
- Excellent visualization
- Suitable for most cases
Endoscopic Discectomy
Camera-guided approach through a smaller opening. Benefits from reduced tissue disruption.
- Smaller incision
- Less muscle damage
- Faster recovery
Recovery Timeline
Most patients recover faster from surgery than expected. Pain improvement may be immediate or gradual depending on how compressed the nerve was.
Walking and mobilization
Desk work, light activities
Return to normal activity
Heavy lifting and sports
Return to Work & Activities
Desk Work
1-2 weeksMost patients can resume office work early
Light Activity
2-4 weeksGentle exercise and normal daily tasks
Full Activity
4-6 weeksReturn to normal routine and recreation
Heavy Lifting
6-8 weeksAvoid heavy loads to prevent re-injury
Sports/Gym
8-12 weeksGradually return with medical clearance
Follow-up Care
OngoingPhysiotherapy and activity guidance
What You Should Know
Success Rates
80-90% of properly selected patients experience significant pain relief after disc surgery. Proper patient selection is key.
Recurrence
5-15% of patients may experience recurrence at the same or different disc level. Risk is reduced with proper technique and recovery adherence.
Prevention
Core strengthening, proper posture, correct lifting mechanics, and staying active reduce recurrence risk and improve long-term outcomes.
Patient Questions
Does every herniated disc require surgery?
No. Most disc herniations improve with conservative care. Surgery is considered when pain is severe, persists despite treatment, or neurological symptoms worsen. A normal MRI finding without symptoms also doesn't require surgery.
How long does sciatica usually last?
Many cases resolve within 6-12 weeks with non-surgical care. Recovery time varies depending on nerve compression severity, how long symptoms persisted, and individual healing. Some patients improve faster; others take longer.
What is the success rate of disc surgery?
About 80-90% of patients experience significant pain relief after properly selected disc surgery. However, success depends on correct diagnosis, appropriate patient selection, and proper surgical technique. Recurrence is possible but occurs in a small percentage.
Can I go back to work after disc surgery?
Yes. Desk work typically resumes within 1-2 weeks. Physically demanding jobs may require 4-6 weeks. Your specific return-to-work timeline depends on the job demands and your recovery progress.
Is minimally invasive disc surgery as effective as open surgery?
For selected cases, yes. Minimally invasive surgery achieves the same goal—nerve decompression—through a smaller corridor. Not all herniations are suitable. Your case must be evaluated individually to determine the safest, most effective approach.
What causes a disc to herniate?
Discs herniate due to aging, degeneration, trauma, repetitive strain, or combinations. A sudden injury (like heavy lifting) can trigger herniation in a disc already weakened by age-related changes.
Leg Pain Doesn't Have to Be Normal
Whether you need conservative care or surgical evaluation, Dr. Narula provides evidence-based treatment tailored to your condition. Bring your MRI and symptoms to your consultation.
Bring your reports. Leave with clarity.
For brain, spine and nerve concerns, connect through a phone call or visit the clinic with MRI/CT reports and previous prescriptions.
+91 97723 48065
C-6, C Block, Sector 34, Noida