Lumbar Hernia

In the lower part of the spine, intervertebral discs are intervertebral structures that are located between the vertebrae and have various functions. The outer part of the disc is made of collagen lamellar fibers and the inner part is made of gel. The discs absorb the impacts on the spine and prevent these impacts from damaging the vertebrae and nerve roots, increase the flexibility of the spine, thus providing mobility in the lumbar and back region, keeping the vertebrae in place and providing stability, helping to protect the spinal cord and nerve roots.

A herniated disc usually occurs in the lumbar region in the lower part of the spine, especially between the L4-L5 and L5-S1 vertebrae. Less commonly, it occurs at the L3-4 and L2-3 distances. These are the areas that bear the weight of the body and are under the most stress during daily movements.

Lumbar Hernia Causes

It is a condition that occurs when the discs between the vertebrae slip or tear, weakening the outer part of the disc (annulus fibrosus) and causing the inner part (nucleus pulposus) to bulge outwards.

Lumbar Hernia Symptoms

Pain in the lower back, radiating to the buttocks and legs. This pain can often be sharp or burning.
Pain along the leg (sciatic pain) is caused by pressure on the nerve roots due to a herniated disc. It is usually felt in the back or side of the leg.
Numbness or tingling from the lower back to the legs, especially the toes.
Weakness or weakness in the legs. This can cause difficulty moving around.
Restriction of normal movements due to discomfort in the lower back. For example, difficulty bending forward or twisting.
Increased pain during activities such as prolonged sitting, standing or heavy lifting.
In rare but serious cases, pressure on the spinal cord can cause difficulty with urinary or bowel control.
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Lumbar Hernia Treatment

Conservative Treatment: Physical therapy aims to strengthen the muscles and increase flexibility.
Epidural Steroid Injections: These injections, which are given close to the nerve roots, can relieve pain by reducing inflammation.
Surgical Intervention:
Microdiscectomy (removal of a herniated disc fragment under a microscope),
Microdecompression (removal of the part of the spine (lamina) that presses on the nerve roots)
Spinal Fusion (fusion of vertebrae, thus increasing stability)
Rehabilitation Physical therapy after surgery is an important part of the recovery process and improves mobility.
Lifestyle Changes: Exercising regularly, controlling weight, adopting ergonomic sitting positions and avoiding heavy lifting are important for maintaining back health.

What You Should Know About Lumbar Hernia Surgery

Surgery can be used to remove the herniated disc fragment, reduce pressure on the nerve roots and relieve pain, numbness and other symptoms. The surgery is performed using special magnification devices (microscope) and fine surgical instruments. Microsurgery prevents damage to surrounding tissues and nerve roots. Compared to traditional methods, smaller incisions are made, which speeds up the healing process and reduces pain levels. The operation time is usually 45 minutes to 1 hour. However, this can vary depending on the size and location of the hernia. Patients can usually be discharged within 1 day.

Operation Duration	Anesthesia	Hospitalization	Recovery Time	Return to Work
45 minutes-1 Hour	General or Epidural Anesthesia	1 Day	2 weeks	7-14 Days