Discectomy

What is a Lumbar Discectomy?

A lumbar discectomy is a surgical procedure used to treat lumbar disc herniation, also known as a slipped or prolapsed disc.

Intervertebral discs sit between the vertebrae of the spine and act as shock absorbers that allow the spine to move and bend smoothly. When part of a disc bulges or herniates, it may compress nearby nerves in the spinal canal.

This nerve compression can cause symptoms such as:

• Lower back pain
• Sciatica (pain radiating down the leg)
• Numbness or tingling in the leg or foot
• Muscle weakness

During a lumbar discectomy, the surgeon removes the damaged portion of the disc to relieve pressure on the affected nerve.

How Lumbar Discectomy Surgery is Performed

Lumbar discectomy surgery is performed under general anaesthesia.

The surgeon makes a small incision in the lower back to access the affected spinal level. The damaged portion of the disc is then carefully removed to relieve pressure on the nerve.

In many cases, a microdiscectomy technique is used. This minimally invasive procedure uses a surgical microscope to remove the disc fragment with greater precision while minimising damage to surrounding tissues.

Benefits of microdiscectomy include:

• Smaller surgical incision
• Less muscle disruption
• Faster recovery
• Reduced post-operative pain

Physiotherapy Before Lumbar Discectomy

Pre-operative physiotherapy plays an important role in preparing your body for surgery.

At ACE Physio Sports, physiotherapy before surgery focuses on improving the strength and flexibility of the muscles that support your spine.

Pre-surgery physiotherapy may include:

• Gentle stretching exercises
• Core strengthening exercises
• Postural education
• Advice on safe movement techniques
• Preparation for post-operative rehabilitation

Improving muscle strength before surgery often helps speed up recovery and improve post-surgical outcomes.

In some cases, physiotherapy for lumbar disc prolapse may reduce symptoms enough to avoid surgery altogether.

Symptoms Following Lumbar Discectomy

After surgery, it is normal to experience some pain and discomfort in the lower back as the tissues heal.

Most patients are encouraged to begin gentle movement within a few hours after surgery, guided by a physiotherapist.

During the early recovery phase, physiotherapists help patients:

• Learn safe movement techniques
• Walk and mobilise comfortably
• Transfer safely in and out of bed
• Perform basic daily activities

Before leaving the hospital, patients are given instructions on exercises and activities to support recovery at home.

Patients are usually advised to avoid bending, lifting, or twisting during the early stages of healing.

Physiotherapy After Lumbar Discectomy

Physiotherapy after lumbar discectomy is essential for restoring mobility, strength, and spinal stability.

At ACE Physio Sports, rehabilitation programmes are tailored to each patient’s needs and recovery goals.

Physiotherapy helps patients:

• Reduce pain and inflammation
• Improve spinal mobility
• Strengthen core muscles
• Restore functional movement
• Safely return to work and activities

Recovery Timeline and Physiotherapy Goals

1–2 Weeks After Surgery

During the early phase of recovery, physiotherapy focuses on pain management and gentle movement.

Treatment may include:

• Ice therapy to reduce swelling
• Ultrasound therapy to promote healing
• Gentle massage to relieve muscle tension
• Light stretching and mobility exercises

Physiotherapists also teach safe techniques for everyday activities such as:

• Getting in and out of bed
• Walking safely
• Climbing stairs
• Performing daily tasks

2–6 Weeks After Surgery

During this stage, rehabilitation focuses on gradually increasing activity levels.

Recommended activities may include:

• Walking
• Swimming
• Stationary cycling

Physiotherapy during this stage may include:

• Stretching exercises to improve flexibility
• Core stability training
• Postural education
• Guidance on safe lifting and bending

Many patients can return to light work within 2–4 weeks, depending on their job demands.

6–12 Weeks After Surgery

At this stage, physiotherapy focuses on restoring strength, endurance, and functional movement.

Rehabilitation may include:

• Core and abdominal strengthening exercises
• Progressive walking programmes
• Work-specific or sport-specific exercises
• Posture and ergonomic advice

These exercises help support the spine and prevent future injuries.

12+ Weeks After Surgery

During the later stages of rehabilitation, physiotherapy focuses on returning to full activity and long-term spinal health.

Treatment may include:

• Advanced strengthening exercises
• Functional movement training
• Endurance conditioning
• Sport-specific rehabilitation

Commitment to your physiotherapy programme is essential for achieving long-term recovery and preventing recurrence of disc problems.

Why Choose ACE Physio Sports?

At ACE Physio Sports, our physiotherapists specialise in spinal rehabilitation and post-surgical recovery.

We provide:

• Personalised rehabilitation programmes
• Expert physiotherapy for spinal surgery recovery
• Guidance for safe return to work and sport
• Long-term injury prevention strategies

Our goal is to help you recover safely, regain mobility, and return to the activities you enjoy.

Book an Appointment

If you are recovering from lumbar discectomy surgery or experiencing symptoms of a lumbar disc problem, our physiotherapists can help.

To arrange an appointment, please call +65 81535374 or visit acephysiosport.com.