Do you struggle with back pain on only one side of your body? If so, nerve compression might be the cause. Lumbar hemilaminectomy provides targeted relief for one-sided pain, and with less impact than a complete laminectomy. NU-Spine: The Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery Institute is a state-of-the-art pain center near you in New Jersey, Florida, and Pennsylvania. Here, we explain one-sided nerve compression and how a hemilaminectomy may provide lasting relief.
Key Takeaways
- One-sided back pain is sometimes caused by nerve compression.
- Symptoms that may suggest the need for a hemilaminectomy include one-sided back pain, burning pain, shooting pain, tingling sensations, numbness, and weakness.
- A lumbar hemilaminectomy involves removing bone material from one half of the lamina. It provides targeted relief while preserving more normal spine anatomy.
When Does One-Sided Lumbar Pain Suggest Nerve Compression?
Some types of lower back pain occur on only one side of the body. This type of pain is often caused by a pinched lumbar nerve, also known as lumbar radiculopathy. This condition develops when a root nerve is subject to pressure from nearby tissue, such as a bone spur, herniated disc, or inflamed soft tissues. The pressure interrupts the flow of information, causing pain along that nerve’s pathway. Other indicators of a nerve issue include:
- Burning pain
- Pain that travels or shoots down one leg
- Tingling or pins-and-needles sensations
- Numbness in zones of the leg
- Muscle weakness
These symptoms may be constant, but they are more likely to come and go intermittently. They may get worse when bending or twisting in a certain direction, when coughing or sneezing, or when lifting the leg while lying down. This is because the movement increases pressure on the impinged nerve.
What Is a Lumbar Hemilaminectomy?
Lumbar hemilaminectomy is a surgical treatment option for nerve pain that occurs on only one side of the back. The procedure involves removing bone material from the lamina. The lamina is the posterior (back) section of the vertebra, which provides protection and support to the spinal cord. By removing part of the lamina, the surgeon opens up space around the spinal cord. This helps to reduce nerve impingement for long-term relief.
A hemilaminectomy can be thought of as half of a laminectomy. Rather than removing the whole lamina, as with a standard laminectomy, a hemilaminectomy takes material from only one side. This partial removal provides targeted relief while preserving most of the spine’s normal anatomy. As a result, the spine has better long-term stability and is less likely to need further operations.
Who Is a Candidate for Lumbar Hemilaminectomy?
While surgery is an effective solution for nerve pain, it should not be a patient’s first step. Major medical procedures, even minimally invasive ones, cause significant bodily disruptions that require a lengthy recovery. As a result, NU-Spine surgeons only recommend lumbar hemilaminectomy when they believe it is necessary to provide relief. Surgery may be the best path forward if:
- The pain occurs on only one side of the body
- The pain comes with other symptoms of a nerve problem
- The pain is severe enough to reduce the quality of life
- The pain lasts for weeks or months at a time
- The pain does not get better with conservative treatments
If a patient is suffering from severe chronic pain that does not improve with conservative care, then their surgeon will request medical imaging tests for closer analysis. Using X-rays, computed tomography (CT) scans, and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans, they will pinpoint the source of the pain to determine whether lumbar hemilaminectomy is the most appropriate treatment.
Find Lower Back Pain Relief Near You at NU-Spine
Are you or a loved one struggling with one-sided lower back pain? Transform your life with a touch of care at NU-Spine: The Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery Institute. We provide the cutting edge in minimally invasive neck and spine treatments, including lumbar hemilaminectomy, to help patients get relief. Don’t wait; schedule your appointment at a state-of-the-art pain center near you in New Jersey, Florida, and Pennsylvania. To learn more or get started, contact us today.
FAQ About Lumbar Hemilaminectomy
When does a surgeon recommend a hemilaminectomy vs. a laminectomy?
A hemilaminectomy is recommended when nerve compression is occurring on only one side of the spine. A laminectomy is recommended when compression occurs on both sides, requiring more aggressive treatment.
How soon after back surgery can I walk, climb stairs, and go home?
Most patients can walk and go home the same day as their procedure, though some may need to spend a night at the hospital. Patients can resume light activities, such as climbing stairs and doing housework, over the next few weeks.
Can symptoms return after a hemilaminectomy, and what are my options if they do?
Symptoms can return after a hemilaminectomy. If they do, NU-Spine provides lumbar spine revision surgery to address failed back procedures.
Who performs spine surgeries at NU-Spine?
At NU-Spine, surgeries are performed by outstanding neurosurgeons, Dr. Branko Skovrlj and Dr. Robert J. Rothrock.