How long to recover from a discectomy of L5 & S1? I am concerned as I have 3 children to care for (the youngest a 24 lb. toddler that requires lifting and carrying).

I am told that I have a massively large protrusion and need the surgery. I will find out more next week when meeting my Neurosurgeon, but I get the impression he doesn't do endoscopic or micro as he wants to see everything?? Does that matter in regards to recovery? He briefly said it doesn't matter if he makes a 1 inch incision or a larger one...they will both heal the same.

He commented that I could be out of the hospital the day of the surgery and recovery time is approx. 2-4 weeks...is this accurate for those of you that have undergone this surgery? Will I be able to care for my children in 2 weeks time...I'm so worried...Thanks!

I had a microdiscectomy just over a year ago. I was able to perform many everyday tasks after several weeks, but lifting 24 pound things was definitely not one of them. I think you will definitely need help in that dept. for a while. Your back will be very vulnerable to reinjury. Good luck to you.

The time frame for recovery can vary and is very dependent on you in terms of your ability to only do as your dr directs you to. Often long recveries or relapses appear to stem from over enthusiasm and the desire to get well as quickly as you can. Try to be patient and if you need help in terms of support to look after your children seek out help from familly and or friends

Good luck

Losy

HI
I am a 43 yr Old 6ft 195 lb and was able to ambulate thru the house the very nex day of my surgery its been 4 months and I already jog a couple of miles a day but my Dr has only cleared me to lift only 15 lbs. I have carried a little more but beleive me your body will let you know that you are not ready for it.
No lifting a 24 pound todler will be extremly risky ( first of all he/she is not a static object which you may more easily handle) so you should be very carefull.
Good luck with your surgery.