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What Causes Persistent Nerve Pain In The Leg After A Discectomy?

Posted on Thu, 19 Jan 2017

Question: Hi....I recently had a discetomy (L5-S1)....9 days ago. I am concerned because I still have significant discomfort / nerve pain in my right leg. I thought this would go away after the surgery....but it seems to have gotten worse. I'm concerned that I may have reherniated the disk.

Answered by Dr. Neeraj Kumar (1 hour later)

Brief Answer:
Get reexamined by treating neurosurgeon

Detailed Answer:
Hello,
I have gone through your question and understand your concerns.
Pain in disc surgery improves to much extent with surgery.
Persistent pain may be due to nerve damage or failed surgery.
Get examined by your treating neurosurgeon.
Some pain killers and pain modulator drugs can be added for releif.
Drugs like pregabalin, gabapentin or amitryptiline is advised.
Hope you found the answer helpful.
Do get back to me for further queries.
Regards
Dr N Kumar
Neurologist

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Yogesh D

Follow up: Dr. Neeraj Kumar (3 hours later)

Thanks Doctor for your response. I have appointment with my neurosurgeon on 1/3. I would ask him these questions but he's currently away on vacation. Given your experience with the discetomy procedure, is it normal to have nerve pain 9 days after surgery? If so, how long do they typically last berfore it subsides?

Thanks... XXXXXXX

Answered by Dr. Neeraj Kumar (12 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Take treatment as advised

Detailed Answer:
Hello,
Pain relief occurs to a large extent after surgery.
Increasing pain or non relief require reevaluation.
Pregabalin or gabapentin can be added and gradually increased in doses.
Regards
Dr N Kumar
Neurologist

Note: For further queries, consult a joint and bone specialist, an Orthopaedic surgeon. Book a Call now.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Remy Koshy