Can pain and numbness persist even after a discectomy surgery?

Hello doctor,

I am 66 years old. Three months back, I had a left L4-L5 Metrx microdiscectomy. A postoperative complication was STEMI with cardiogenic shock requiring emergency PCI with multiple Vfib arrests. I was given several drugs, that included Heparin, and hospitalized for 20 days.

I have pain and numbness in my left buttock region that is sometimes severe. Also, I occasionally have pain in my thighs and numbness and tingling in my left foot. My surgical scar has healed well, and I do not have back pain. I am able to sit; however, standing and walking cause pain in the buttocks and legs. Also, I have numbness on the top of my right foot and saddle area, and there is no bowel or bladder incontinence. However, there is constipation sometimes. This discomfort has restricted me from doing any activity around the house, and I continue to use my walker at times as well. I have made significant lifestyle changes since my STEMI with diet, fluid restriction, and medications. My current medications include tablet Brilinta 180 mg, tablet Aspirin 81 mg, tablet Lasix 80 mg, tablet Carvedilol 12.5 mg, tablet Spironol 25 mg, tablet Losartan 25 mg, Potassium capsules, and fiber capsules. I have also been taking injection Novolog, 8 to16 units per day. I have been trying to reduce my insulin injections as I am gaining belly weight. My HbA1c is around 9 %. I do not take any medications for pain and have taken Gabapentin capsules.

My neurosurgeon suggested I gradually increase my activity and referred me to physical therapy. However, my buttock and leg pain have not subsided. As a result, I do not do much lifting, bending, or twisting. I understand that these complaints may subside with time; however, the symptoms are frustrating me.

Kindly advise.