u/United_Structure3300

6 weeks after my (59F) surgery for “severe herniation” at L4/L5 (MD and laminotomy) - don’t know the measurement but dr notes said a large piece of disc was removed. I have faithfully read hundreds of your posts throughout my first 6 weeks (thank you!) so I thought I knew what to expect for my follow up appt. I was told no PT and no restrictions. A follow up MRI had been done and I was told it looks great and to listen to my body. I asked many questions and was told my 600 mile drive was fine for vacation (I did it the next day) and I might be sore, but no restrictions. This is a well-respected practice and surgeon, but it was the PA who saw me (and who assisted with all previous appts and the surgery.) Has this happened to anyone? I am super nervous!

30 days ago I had an L4-L5 microdisectomy and laminotomy. My disc was severely herniated in the left side, but I never had traditional sciatica. Instead I had hip pain and intense glute cramping on both sides. I also had pins and needles in both feet and calves and was starting to develop sciatica on the right side.
The surgeon took out a large piece of disc and said nerves rebounded immediately. He also “cleaned out” the right side as best he could.
I have been so careful not to BLT (although it has happened some), and wear the brace he gave me on my many walks.
Now 30 days in I am having increased cramping and pain in my glutes, the backs of my hips, and continual pins and needles in feet and calves on both sides.

Two days ago I did a dentist appt and went to the theater (sat on a hard chair with support) and felt fine after both.
I am curious about your experiences - is this a sign of reherniation? Did you all have this as part of your healing? Even sitting right now is miserable, and it was not before!