Overview
Lumbar decompression is one of the most common spinal operations. Over time the spinal canal can narrow (stenosis) or a disc can bulge, pressing on the nerves that travel to your legs. Decompression carefully removes the small amount of bone or disc responsible, creating space and relieving the pressure — without destabilising the spine.
Who it's for
- Leg pain, heaviness or cramping that worsens on walking (neurogenic claudication)
- Sciatica that has not settled with physiotherapy or injections
- Numbness, pins-and-needles or weakness in the leg or foot
- Spinal stenosis or a herniated disc confirmed on MRI
How the procedure works
Assessment & planning
Your symptoms and MRI are reviewed together, and the exact level to treat is confirmed.
Access
Through a small incision, muscles are gently parted rather than cut — a muscle-sparing approach.
Decompression
The bone or disc pressing on the nerve is precisely removed under magnification, freeing the nerve.
Recovery room
Most patients are up and walking the same day and often go home within 24 hours.
Risks & honest expectations
Decompression is a well-established, generally safe operation, but no surgery is without risk. These are uncommon and are discussed fully with you beforehand, so your decision is a genuinely informed one.
Surgery is only ever recommended when non-surgical care has been fully explored and is genuinely the right option for you.
QUICK FACTS
Procedure time
45–90 minutes
Anaesthetic
General or local
Hospital stay
Day-case to 1 night
Back to desk work
1–2 weeks
Full recovery
6–12 weeks