Symptoms
- Back pain that runs down one leg
- Numbness or tingling in the leg or foot
- Pain worse when sitting, bending or coughing
- Weakness in the leg or foot
See a doctor urgently if
- Loss of bladder or bowel control
- Numbness around the private parts
- Leg weakness getting worse
Treatment
First: Medicines, physiotherapy and staying active. Most slip discs improve in 6–12 weeks.
If needed: Endoscopic discectomy: the disc piece pressing on the nerve is removed through a cut of about 8–10 mm.
Questions
Can a slip disc heal without surgery?
Yes. Most slip discs improve within 6–12 weeks with medicine and physiotherapy. Surgery is for pain that does not improve, leg weakness, or bladder and bowel problems.
Is endoscopic slip disc surgery available in Kathmandu?
Yes. Dr. Ramkrishna Dahal performs endoscopic discectomy at Grande International Hospital, Dhapasi, Kathmandu.