Lumbar Disc Protrusions – ‘Sciatica’

An intervertebral disc is a fibrocartilaginous structure between 2 vertebra (spine bones). The discs can sometimes bulge out of place and put pressure on the nerves in the spine. This can also be referred to as disc herniation or protrusion. 

Disc protrusion (white arrow) at L5/S1 causing nerve compression.

Disc protrusion (white arrow) at L5/S1 causing nerve compression.

Compression of a nerve in the spine interferes with its function and may cause pain, numbness, or weakness.  Sciatica is pain in the buttock and leg, caused by pressure on nerves in the lower back. The most common cause is a disc protrusion.

Microdiscectomy surgery is sometimes needed to remove pressure and tension on the nerve in order to relieve symptoms. This is particularly in cases where there is severe pain, pain that is not improving or significant weakness.

For more information on microdiscectomy, please click here.