Spine Surgery in Lagos: Treating Slipped Disc, Sciatica & Chronic Back Pain
Slipped disc, sciatica and back pain explained — the red flags, when surgery is needed, and how to protect your spine. Starcare, Ikeja.
Starcare International Hospital · No. 21, Mobolaji Bank Anthony Way, Maryland-GRA, Ikeja, Lagos
+234 9152 70 70 70 · WhatsApp +234 9154 70 70 70
Back pain affects almost everyone at some point, but pain that shoots down a leg, numbness, or weakness can signal a spine problem that needs proper assessment. The good news: the vast majority of back pain never needs surgery. Our spine specialists at Starcare International Hospital, Ikeja, explain what causes back pain, the warning signs, and when surgery genuinely helps.
- 80%+
of back pain improves without surgery - Sciatica
leg pain from a pinched nerve - Red flags
signs that need urgent review - Keyhole
options for many disc problems
Most back pain is mechanical and settles with time, movement and physiotherapy. Surgery is reserved for nerve compression that causes severe or worsening symptoms. Our spine surgery service in Ikeja offers careful, conservative-first care.
Common Causes of Back and Neck Pain
Slipped (herniated) disc
A disc bulges and presses on a nerve, causing pain that travels into the leg (sciatica) or arm. Many heal with time and physiotherapy.
Sciatica
Sharp, shooting pain down the back of the leg, often with tingling. Usually from a pinched nerve in the lower back.
Spinal stenosis
Narrowing of the spinal canal, common with age, causing leg pain on walking that eases when you sit or bend forward.
Everyday mechanical pain
Poor posture, long hours at a desk in Lagos traffic and offices, lifting incorrectly, and weak core muscles are the most common culprits.
⚠ Important — seek urgent care if you have: loss of bladder or bowel control, numbness around the groin, or sudden severe leg weakness. These are red flags and need emergency assessment at our Accident & Emergency unit immediately.
When Is Spine Surgery Needed?
Surgery is considered when:
- Nerve compression causes severe or worsening weakness
- Pain persists despite months of physiotherapy and medication
- Scans confirm a structural problem matching your symptoms
Modern spine surgery is often minimally invasive, with smaller incisions and faster recovery than in the past. Before any operation, our internal medicine team ensures you are medically fit.
Back or Leg Pain That Won't Go Away?
Book a spine assessment at Starcare International Hospital, Ikeja, for a clear diagnosis and a conservative-first plan.
Protecting Your Spine Day to Day
Move regularly
Avoid sitting for hours; stand and stretch through the workday.
Lift correctly
Bend the knees, keep the load close, and avoid twisting.
Strengthen your core
Strong abdominal and back muscles support the spine.
Back Pain Decisions at a Glance
SymptomUsual ApproachAching back, no leg painStay active, physiotherapyLeg pain (sciatica)Assessment, physiotherapy, medicationWorsening leg weaknessUrgent specialist reviewBladder/bowel changesEmergency — go to A&E now
Frequently Asked Questions
These are the questions our patients in Lagos ask most often. For anything specific to your case, our specialist team at Starcare International Hospital, Ikeja, is always available to help.
Will I need surgery for a slipped disc?
Most slipped discs improve without surgery over weeks to months. Surgery is only for persistent severe symptoms or progressive nerve weakness.
Is bed rest good for back pain?
No. Prolonged bed rest usually makes back pain worse. Gentle activity and staying mobile speeds recovery for most people.
What scan do I need for back pain?
Not everyone needs a scan. Imaging such as MRI is used when red-flag symptoms are present or when surgery is being considered. Your doctor will advise.
Can desk work cause back pain?
Yes. Long hours sitting with poor posture is a leading cause. Regular movement, good chair support and core strengthening all help.
Final Takeaway: Conservative First, Surgery Only When Needed
The spine is resilient, and most back pain heals without an operation. Knowing the warning signs — and getting timely assessment — is what protects you. At Starcare International Hospital, Ikeja, our spine team treats conservatively first and operates only when it truly helps.
You May Also Find Helpful
- Orthopedic Care in Lagos
- Arthroscopy & Sports Injury in Lagos
- When to Visit A&E in Lagos
- Our Spine Surgery Service
Tags: Spine Surgery Lagos · Back Pain Treatment Lagos · Slipped Disc Ikeja · Sciatica · Spine Specialist Nigeria
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