Two of the most common and effective procedures for relieving pinched nerves in the spine. Use the interactive guide below to explore how each one works, what it treats, and what recovery looks like — then call Dr. Hobbs with your questions.
Leg pain, sciatica, numbness, and difficulty walking are often caused by something pressing on the nerves in your spine — either a herniated disc or a narrowed spinal canal (stenosis). Microdiscectomy and laminectomy are decompression procedures that remove what's causing the pressure. Both can be performed with minimally invasive, tissue-sparing techniques.
When a disc herniates, its soft inner material pushes out and presses on a nearby spinal nerve — the usual cause of sciatica. In a microdiscectomy, Dr. Hobbs removes just the herniated fragment through a small incision using a microscope, taking the pressure off the nerve while leaving the rest of the disc intact.
In spinal stenosis, the spinal canal narrows and squeezes the nerves — often causing leg pain, heaviness, or cramping that worsens with walking. In a laminectomy, Dr. Hobbs removes part or all of the lamina (the bony roof of the canal) to reopen the space and free the nerves, preserving as much normal structure as possible.
Diagrams are simplified illustrations for education and are not exact anatomical depictions.
| Microdiscectomy | Laminectomy | |
|---|---|---|
| Main problem | Herniated disc | Spinal stenosis |
| What's removed | Herniated disc fragment | Part of the lamina (bony roof) |
| Typical symptom relieved | Sciatica / leg pain | Leg pain with walking |
| Incision | Often < 1 inch | Small; varies by levels |
| Hospital stay | Often same-day | Outpatient or short stay |
| Fuller recovery | ~6 weeks | ~6–12 weeks |
Sometimes both are combined — for example, removing a disc fragment and widening the canal in the same operation. Dr. Hobbs tailors the plan to what your imaging and symptoms show.
Timelines are typical ranges and vary with the procedure, number of levels treated, and individual healing. Dr. Hobbs gives every patient a personalized recovery plan.
Surgery is usually considered after nonsurgical care — rest, medication, physical therapy, and injections — hasn't given enough relief, or when symptoms are progressing. You may be a candidate if you have:
Sudden severe weakness, or loss of bladder or bowel control, can be a surgical emergency — seek care right away or call 911.
If sciatica or leg pain is holding you back, find out whether a microdiscectomy or laminectomy could help. Dr. Hobbs will review your imaging and explain your options. Call today to schedule a consultation.
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Crown Point, IN 46307
601 Gateway Boulevard
Chesterton, IN 46304