Microdisectomy of L5

[Dee1956]

Hello, a week ago I had an emergency microdisectomy.  I had a large rupture of the L5 disc which was crushing the L5 nerve root and spine.
After the surgery my doctor went on vacation for Christmas, I will be seen by his PA on Thursday so hope she will advise.  In the meant time I have questions I hope someone will help me.

I was  given directions on how to take care of the incision and told to walk a little as that would help blood flow to the back.  I am wondering if there is anything else I should be doing.  Last night I woke with charlie horse type cramps in my shin, then it went to the back of my knee. As I tried to stretch it out I realized that if my leg collapsed I could rip the stitches and possibly ruin the surgery.  I got back in to bed, screaming for my husband.  He gave me calcium, magnesium, potassium, thinking it might be electrolyte related.  I put a heating pad on the muscles.
After about 20 minutes it stopped.  I am very sore this morning and very afraid.

Is this normal after the surgery?  It seems the surgery was a success, I no longer feel as if someone is twisting the muscles in my leg, the electrical shocks running up and down leg have improved.
The numbness ins my foot seems to be improving.  The incision is pretty painful but I expected that.

I would appreciate any advice anyone could give me, Thank you Dee.

[Dee1956]

Thank you so much for this answer, I am sorry I have been off line for a while.
I seem to have improved though have had set backs a couple of times.
Thanks again
Dee

[Dr. Kokil Mathur]

Hi Dee!
The Charlie horse pain can be due to blood clots in the veins as this is common after any orthopedic and spine surgery. The pain could also be due to a wrong posture causing the nerve to get pinched or due to electrolyte imbalance. It is important to consult your doctor regarding this as soon as possible. Take care!

The medical advice given should not be considered a substitute for medical care provided by a doctor who can examine you. The advice may not be completely correct for you as the doctor cannot examine you and does not know your complete medical history. Hence this reply to your post should only be considered as a guiding line and you must consult your doctor at the earliest for your medical problem.