Disc Herniation: Symptoms, Surgery, and Recovery Concerns

Herniated disc

Hello Doctor, at first, my fingers started to feel numb.
I didn't pay much attention to it, but I went to a small clinic for an examination, and the doctor said there was no problem.
However, my condition did not improve; in fact, it got worse.
My feet also started to feel numb, extending up to my thighs, and I have severe pain in my lower back, making it difficult to walk normally.
I have been to about 3 to 4 hospitals.
Eventually, I went to a hospital in central Taiwan for further examination, where the doctor ordered an MRI.
After the results came back, the doctor informed me that I have a herniated disc, specifically between the 5th and 6th cervical vertebrae, where the cartilage has deformed.
The doctor told me that I need to have surgery as soon as possible and that delaying it would be detrimental.
I underwent surgery the day after the examination, allowing the doctor to perform the procedure.

Now, more than three months post-surgery, I still experience numbness in my hands and feet, as well as persistent lower back pain.
Is this a normal phenomenon? Sometimes my legs suddenly shake, and it feels like my hands and feet are out of control.
Is this also a normal occurrence? I am very scared of potential long-term consequences.
Thank you.

Wen

Wen, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2004/04/13

Dr. Chen Changmu reply Neurosurgery

Spinal cord compression can cause numbness and pain.
After decompression surgery, the improvement in pain is often most noticeable, but the numbness may take some time to resolve.
Sometimes, if the compression has lasted too long, it may result in permanent spinal cord damage, which cannot be reversed.
Based on your description, it is difficult to make a clear assessment.
You are welcome to visit the clinic for further evaluation.

Reply Date: 2004/04/13

More Info

Hello, 雯. Thank you for sharing your experience regarding your disc herniation and subsequent surgery. It sounds like you have been through a challenging journey, and I understand your concerns about the ongoing symptoms you are experiencing.

Disc herniation occurs when the soft inner material of a spinal disc bulges out through a tear in the tougher exterior. This can lead to compression of nearby nerves, resulting in symptoms such as pain, numbness, tingling, and weakness in the arms or legs, depending on the location of the herniation. In your case, it seems that the herniation is in the cervical region (C5-C6), which can affect the upper limbs.

Post-surgery, it is not uncommon for patients to experience residual symptoms such as numbness, tingling, or weakness. This can be due to several factors:
1. Nerve Recovery: After surgery, nerves that have been compressed may take time to heal. Nerve regeneration can be a slow process, and it is not unusual for symptoms to persist for weeks or even months after surgery. In some cases, it may take up to a year for full recovery.

2. Surgical Trauma: The surgery itself can cause some trauma to the surrounding tissues and nerves. This can lead to inflammation and irritation, which may contribute to ongoing symptoms.

3. Scar Tissue Formation: After surgery, scar tissue can form around the surgical site. This scar tissue can sometimes lead to nerve irritation or compression, which may cause symptoms similar to those experienced before surgery.

4. Underlying Conditions: If there were pre-existing conditions contributing to your symptoms, such as degenerative disc disease or spinal stenosis, these may still be present and could continue to cause discomfort.

Regarding the sudden jerking or shaking of your legs, this could be related to several factors, including nerve irritation or muscle spasms. It is essential to discuss these symptoms with your healthcare provider, as they can help determine if further evaluation or treatment is necessary.

In terms of what you can do moving forward, here are some suggestions:
- Follow-Up Appointments: Keep regular follow-up appointments with your surgeon or neurologist. They can monitor your recovery and adjust your treatment plan as needed.

- Physical Therapy: Engaging in physical therapy can be beneficial. A physical therapist can design a rehabilitation program tailored to your needs, focusing on strengthening, flexibility, and pain management.

- Pain Management: If you are experiencing significant pain, discuss pain management options with your doctor. This may include medications, nerve blocks, or other interventions.

- Lifestyle Modifications: Incorporate gentle exercises, such as walking or swimming, as tolerated. Avoid activities that exacerbate your symptoms, and ensure you maintain good posture to reduce strain on your spine.

- Mind-Body Techniques: Consider exploring relaxation techniques, such as yoga or meditation, which may help manage pain and improve your overall well-being.

It is understandable to feel anxious about potential long-term effects or complications. However, many patients experience significant improvement over time. Open communication with your healthcare team is crucial, as they can provide reassurance and guidance tailored to your specific situation.

In summary, while it is not uncommon to experience ongoing symptoms after disc herniation surgery, it is essential to monitor these symptoms closely and maintain open communication with your healthcare providers. With appropriate management and support, many patients can achieve a good quality of life post-surgery. Please take care, and I wish you a smooth recovery.

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