A herniated disc — also known as a slipped or ruptured disc — is one of the most common causes of back pain and nerve compression. While many cases improve with rest, physiotherapy, or injections, there comes a point where surgery may be necessary.
At London Spine Health, we see many patients who’ve struggled with months of pain, wondering if surgery is the right choice. The good news? Not everyone needs an operation — but for the right patient, it can be life-changing.
Here’s how to know when surgery becomes the next best step.
What Is a Herniated Disc?
Between each vertebra in your spine sits a soft, cushioning disc. These discs have a tough outer layer and a soft, jelly-like centre. A herniated disc occurs when the inner core pushes out through the outer layer, often pressing on nearby nerves.
This can lead to symptoms like:
Sharp or burning lower back pain
Sciatica — shooting pain down one leg
Numbness, tingling, or weakness in the leg or foot
Pain made worse by coughing, sneezing, or sitting
Herniated discs most commonly occur in the lower back (lumbar spine) but can also affect the neck (cervical spine).
First-Line Treatment: Non-Surgical Options
Before considering surgery, most patients begin with conservative treatment. This may include:
Pain relief medication (anti-inflammatories or nerve pain meds)
Physiotherapy to improve posture, strength, and mobility
Epidural steroid injections to reduce inflammation
Activity modification and temporary rest
In many cases, symptoms improve within 6 to 12 weeks — especially when the nerve pressure is mild and no significant weakness is present.
So, When Is Surgery the Right Option?
You should consider herniated disc surgery if:
1. Non-surgical treatment has failed
If your pain hasn’t improved after 6–12 weeks of rest, physiotherapy, and medication, surgery may be required to relieve pressure on the nerve and restore function.
2. You have worsening nerve symptoms
If you experience progressive numbness, tingling, or weakness in the leg, foot, or arm, this suggests that the nerve is being compressed severely — and could become permanently damaged without surgical intervention.
3. Your mobility is affected
If your pain is limiting your ability to walk, sleep, or work, and everyday activities have become a challenge, surgery may help restore your quality of life.
4. You develop bladder or bowel symptoms
Cauda equina syndrome is a rare emergency where disc herniation compresses nerves controlling bowel or bladder function. If this occurs, urgent surgery is needed to prevent long-term damage.
Types of Surgery for Herniated Discs
At London Spine Health, we offer several advanced surgical options, tailored to your condition:
Microdiscectomy – Removal of part of the disc through a small incision
Endoscopic discectomy – A minimally invasive option using a small camera and instruments
Robotic-assisted discectomy – For precision and faster recovery
Spinal fusion (if instability is present)
Many of these procedures can be performed as day-case or short-stay surgeries, especially when done minimally invasively.
What to Expect After Surgery
Recovery varies depending on the procedure, but most patients can expect:
Walking within a few hours or next day
Returning to desk work in 1–2 weeks
Resuming normal activity in 6–8 weeks
Full recovery within 3 months
Physiotherapy and follow-up care will support your return to full function. Many patients report dramatic pain relief just days after surgery.
Why Choose London Spine Health?
Consultant-led care by Mr Irfan Malik, one of the UK’s leading spine surgeons
Same-day diagnostics, including MRI and CT
Options for minimally invasive and robotic spine surgery
Personalised treatment plans based on your goals and lifestyle
Convenient Harley Street location in Central London
We don’t rush to operate — but when surgery is needed, we make sure it’s done with precision, care, and long-term recovery in mind.
Book a Herniated Disc Consultation
Still unsure if surgery is the right path? A consultation at London Spine Health can help clarify your options and put you on the road to lasting relief.
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