Disc bulge at the L5 S1 nerve root which is causing distortion of the root

[Fluffpuff]

I have had an ongoing problem with a shallow lower disc bulge since August 2024 which is not resolving. I’ve had a causal steroid injection which didn’t help that much. I’ve done all the exercises but I can’t see how it will get better without having a microdiscectomy I have tingling and numbness most of the time. It’s not that painful but it’s affecting my life as it’s always there and I just want to feel moral again. Has anyone had a microdiscetomy and what was the outcome?

I have the same issue, the weakness and numbness in the leg is so debilitating. I have absolutely no flexion in my foot.

I had a microdiscectomy for same area. MRI looked like a bite had been taken out of my spinal cord from where the disc leak was pressing on it.
Recovered fine. Have a weakness in same area which flares up now and then, but only once in 15 years has the pain been as debilitating.

Have the op if you can. Gave me my life back.

@boarbrush-have you been offered any surgery on the nhs for this?

@anotheranonanon - did you get it on the nhs?

I had this op for the same reason, plus issues with L4 13 years ago.
it was the best decision I ever made.

I did need some ongoing treatment with the chiropractor for a couple of years after, but I am good now and have no issues other than a bit ot stiffness when it gets really cold or damp outside.

I haven’t taken any painkillers or meds for years.

@notthatoldchestnut- how long did you have problems for before you had the op? Mine happened August 2024 so I’m worried it’s been a long time and the op might not work?

Did you already post this on another thread yesterday?
https://www.mumsnet.com/talk/general_health/5490514-microdiscectomy?reply=150523920

yes - I wasn’t sure where to post it and couldn’t work out how to delete one of them

It was about 12 months from having issues to getting the op!