Lumbar decompression surgery
Lumbar decompression surgery is a type of surgery used to treat compressed nerves in the lower (lumbar) spine. It's only recommended when non-surgical treatments haven't helped.
Lumbar decompression surgery is usually only considered if non-surgical treatments for your lower spine haven't worked and symptoms are affecting your quality of life.
If you and your consultant decide you could benefit from lumbar decompression surgery, you'll be put on a waiting list. Your doctor or surgeon should be able to tell you how long you're likely to have to wait.
Recovery after lumbar decompression surgery will depend on your fitness and level of activity prior to surgery. This is why a course of physiotherapy before the operation may be recommended.
Lumbar decompression surgery is generally effective in relieving symptoms such as leg pain and numbness. However, up to one in three people continue to have symptoms after surgery, or develop symptoms again within a few years.
Ron Oxburgh, chairman of several small companies, successfully underwent lumbar decompression surgery several years ago.