My dad is 59 and has had sciatica pain from a slipped disc between L4-L5 for 10 years. Doctors recommended surgery but said it might not last and could have lifelong risks, so we stuck with physio and meds. Now he's getting numbness and pain in his leg and fingers. Should we consider surgery now or keep trying physio and meds?

Answered by 1 Apollo Doctors

Dr Dhankecha Dineshbhai

General Practitioner

MBBS
6+ Yrs

Consult Now

New numbness and worsening sciatica after long-term conservative care may indicate nerve compression‚Äîsurgical decompression may now offer better relief and prevent damage.

Dr. Dhankecha Suggests...

Consult a Neurosurgeon

Find a Neurosurgeon

Answered 14/08/2025

More Neurosurgery Health Queries

View all

what's the best way to treat sciatica pain my doctor suggested surgery but I'm worried about how bad it could get in the worst case is it safe to drive long distances with this kind of pain

Sciatica may respond to physiotherapy,medication,or epidural injections.Surgery is usually last resort.Driving long distances should be limited if pain worsens.

Answered by 1 Apollo Doctors

Can you give me details on the cost of DBS surgery at AIIMS Delhi and Sir Ganga Ram Hospital Delhi also which doctors specialize in performing this procedure at these hospitals

COST depends on dr and hospital.

Answered by 1 Apollo Doctors

my mri report shows disc desiccation with mild diffuse disc bulge and a posterocentral disc herniation at l5s1 level pressing on the thecal sac what does this mean i had spinal surgery back in april 2017 for a tumor in my spinal cord could this be related or something new to worry about

since there is a disc herniation , a neuro surgeon opinion is advised for report review and further management of the patient

Answered by 1 Apollo Doctors

Health Articles for you

View all

General Medical Consultation

Guide to Neurosurgery -Treat Shaky Hands

Know about the neurosurgery, what are shaky hands, causes, risk factors, techniques to calm it, medications and living with shaky hands and more.

Cerebral Aneurysms

Cerebral Aneurysm Rupture: Key Symptoms and Emergency Action

Learn to recognise the key symptoms of a cerebral aneurysm rupture and understand the urgent steps to take in an emergency.

Pinched Nerve

Pinched Nerve in Neck: Non-Surgical Relief Guide

Learn how to relieve a pinched nerve in the neck with non-surgical methods, including exercises, posture tips, and effective home remedies.

Disclaimer: Answers on Apollo 247 are not intended to replace your doctor advice. Always seek help of a professional doctor in case of an medical emergency or ailment.