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What Causes Inflammation And Discomfort At The Lumbar Region After Herniated Disc Surgery?

Posted on Thu, 31 Aug 2017

Question: I had L-3-L-4 back surgery for a herniated disk in 2014. Last month I had back surgery for a herniated disk L-5. While my recovery is moving along swimmingly on the L-5, there has been considerable inflammation and discomfort at the L-3-L-4 area. My chiro states that due to my reduction inactivity in attempting to recover from the L-5 surgery, the body is thrown into a tizzy and trying to readjust to the new reality that I am considerably less active. Strangely, during week 3 of my recovery from the L-5 surgery, did the discomfort and inflammation on the L-3-L-4 commence. I tried prescribed medication to reduce inflammation and I ice and stretch everyday. I was told by my surgeon to seek physical therapy for my condition. I am dismayed since for YEARS post L-3-L-4 surgery I was completely pain free and engaged in vigorous physical activity. I am now relegated to low impact stair master and walking. Your feedback is immensely appreciated. Most Gratefully, xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

Answered by Dr. Dr. Praveen Tayal (1 hour later)

Brief Answer:
Repeated surgeries can cause a delayed healing.

Detailed Answer:
Hello,
Thanks for posting your query.
Repeated back surgeries can cause discomfort and inflammation. The recovery from second surgery is less smooth than the first one. The mild inflammation that you are having now can be due to inadequate rest. Now starting the activities gradually under the guidance of a physiotherapist will help.
I hope this answers your query.
In case you have additional questions or doubts, you can forward them to me, and I shall be glad to help you out.
Wishing you good health.
Regards.
Dr. Praveen Tayal.
For future query, you can directly approach me through my profile URL http://bit.ly/Dr-Praveen-Tayal

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Yogesh D

Follow up: Dr. Dr. Praveen Tayal (25 minutes later)

Dear Dr. Tayal:

Endless gratitude for your response. What do you recommend for the reduction in inflammation in addition to the your recommendation that I embark on a regimen of therapy under the guidance of a physio? Do you surmise that in time, I should be back to 100 percent much like I was before assuming I diligently follow instructions?

With profound appreciation
xxxxxx

Answered by Dr. Dr. Praveen Tayal (4 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Details below.

Detailed Answer:
Hello.
Thanks for writing again.
You can do a hot compress and take mild pain killer with an oral muscle relaxant to help with the inflammation. Local analgesic gel application will also help.
You will gradually recover to 100% that you were before. No need to worry.
Hope my answer is helpful.
Do accept my answer in case there are no further queries.
Regards.

Note: For further queries, consult a joint and bone specialist, an Orthopaedic surgeon. Book a Call now.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Nagamani Ng