Lumbar Decompression

What is lumbar decompression?

Lumbar decompression is surgery to treat compressed nerves in your lower back (lumbar spine). It’s a minimally invasive procedure for lower back pain that doesn’t improve with more conservative treatments like rest, physical therapy, and radiofrequency ablation.

Who is a candidate for lumbar decompression?

You could qualify for lumbar decompression if you have any of the following symptoms:

• Pain that radiates into your legs or feet
• Lower back pain that lasts several months
• Muscle weakness
• Pain or weakness that affects your ability to walk or stand
• Difficulty working, exercising, or doing other routine activities

Lumbar decompression can relieve bladder and bowel problems caused by compressed nerves.

How do I prepare for lumbar decompression?

Your Coastal Spine provider explains how to prepare for lumbar decompression. If you take medicines like blood thinners, you’ll probably need to stop beforehand to reduce the risk of bleeding or bruising after surgery. If you smoke or drink alcohol, let your surgeon know.

What does lumbar decompression surgery involve?

Lumbar decompression is a minimally invasive procedure that takes one to two hours. 

Your Coastal Spine surgeon administers a general anesthetic, putting you to sleep. They make a small incision in your lower back just above the compressed nerve. Your surgeon carefully removes the bone and excess tissue that are putting pressure on the nerve. Your surgeon closes the incision and moves you to recovery for observation.

What is recovery like after lumbar decompression?

After lumbar decompression, most people return home. But if you have diabetes, kidney disease, or another underlying health problem, you might need to stay in the hospital.

During the first few days of recovery, it’s important that you walk to reduce the risk of blood clots. You should avoid exercise, including strenuous movements like bending, twisting, and lifting.

Having lower back pain, bruising, and swelling for several weeks is normal. Get lots of rest, drink plenty of fluids, and take your medication as prescribed. You might need to wear a back brace.

You can return to work and other activities after a week or two. But it could take several months or longer to regain your entire range of motion. Follow your surgeon’s recovery instructions and go to each follow-up appointment. If you experience stiffness or other mobility problems, your provider could recommend physical therapy.

Call the nearest Coastal Spine office today to learn more about lumbar decompression surgery, or make your appointment online.