pain after disectomy

[inpain122]

i had a disectomy tuesday. it is now friday evening. i only had minor pain in my leg every once in awhile, the pain was mainly in my lower back and right hip. now my leg is so numb with pain you could stick a knife in it and i wouldnt know. is this normal? also i havent had a bowel movement since surgery. ive been taking the same pills as before surgery just more of them now is that why im stopped up? can i take anything for that?


This discussion is related to Ongoing pain after endoscopic discectomy at L5S1.

[Dr Sharma]

My dear friend, welcome to the medhelp forum. I can understand your dilemma with this severe pain post operatively. Usually there is moderate to severe pain limited to the incision due to cutting and manipulation of layers of tissue. This is managed by opioids initially followed by NSAIDS. These medicines can cause constipation and you need to consume lot of water and fiber rich foods. Moreover, since you have not been ambulatory due to pain, you may find difficulty in bowel motion. Consult your surgeon and you might be prescribed laxatives. If you underwent fusion of vertebrae along with discectomy, more care and precautions need to be taken. You need to consult your doctor to rule out complications like deep vein thrombosis due to immobilization after surgery and nerve damage due to the herniated disc or during the manipulation since you have numbness in the right leg which is not expected and is concerning.
I have my limitations to comment further upon your situation. You are most welcome to clarify further.

[Londres70]

PLEASE CALL YOUR SURGEON ASAP.  Your leg should NOT feel numb.  

Your bowels are probably not moving related to not moving around and pain medications.  Your physician should recommend what to take for that.  

[caregiver222]

Ask your physician for a prescription for a transdermal lidocaine patch. Cut to size and wear no more than 12 hours a day. Place over the injured discs.