What are the treatment options for lumbar herniated disc?

Question

Hi doctor,

I have had lower back pain for more than 8 years and sciatica for the last 6 years. Now, I could not lift my left foot properly. My recent electromyography of the left foot revealed signs of a chronic denervation of the muscles on the left foot from the L5 motor root. My recent MRI revealed two herniated discs between (Lumbar) L3-L4 and L4-L5.

Please guide.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

You need surgery for the herniated discs since they are significant and you have a neurological deficit (attachment removed to protect patient identity). I would advise you to go ahead with surgery as soon as possible. You have good chances of recovering the lost function.

I hope this helps.

Thank you.

Answer 2

Hi,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

As I said earlier, you will need surgery for the herniated discs. As for stem cell therapy for the back, there is no evidence about its benefit in spinal cord injury and disc prolapse, although a lot of research is being done. I do not recommend stem cell therapy for your problem.

I hope this helps.

Thank you.