Disc surgery is needed urgently for cauda equina syndrome and progressive nerve weakness, and is a reasonable choice for severe pain that has not improved with good non-surgical care. This page exists so you can tell the difference.
Emergency: go now
- Numbness in the saddle area (groin, buttocks, inner thighs)
- New difficulty passing urine, loss of bladder or bowel control
- Weakness or numbness in both legs
These are signs of cauda equina syndrome. Delay can cause permanent damage.
Back or leg pain for more than 6 weeks? Get the free guide and a doctor review of your scan.
Urgent: see a specialist within days
- Foot drop or weakness that is getting worse
- In the neck: clumsy hands or unsteady walking
Reasonable to consider surgery
- Severe sciatica lasting more than 6 to 12 weeks despite treatment, with a matching MRI
- Pain that stops you working or sleeping and is not improving
Not a reason for surgery on its own
- A disc bulge on an MRI without matching symptoms
- Back pain alone without nerve symptoms