Spinal Decompression Surgery

What is spinal decompression surgery?

Spinal decompression surgery is a procedure designed to relieve pressure on the spinal cord or nerves caused by conditions such as herniated discs, spinal stenosis, bone spurs, or degenerative changes in the spine.

When spinal nerves are compressed, patients often experience back pain, leg pain (sciatica), numbness, tingling, or weakness. Decompression surgery creates more space in the spinal canal, reducing nerve irritation and improving mobility.

Conditions treated with spinal decompression surgery

Spinal decompression may be recommended for patients with:

• Spinal stenosis (narrowing of the spinal canal)
• Herniated or bulging discs
• Bone spurs (osteophytes)
• Degenerative disc disease
• Spondylolisthesis (slipped vertebra)
• Spinal injuries or fractures causing nerve compression

Types of spinal decompression procedures

At Iowa Ortho, our spine surgeons may recommend one or more decompression techniques depending on the patient’s condition:

• Laminectomy – Removal of part of the vertebra (lamina) to relieve pressure on the spinal cord or nerves.
• Laminotomy – Partial removal of the lamina to create more space while preserving stability.
• Foraminotomy – Enlargement of the openings where nerves exit the spine (foramina).
• Discectomy or microdiscectomy – Removal of a portion of a herniated disc pressing on nerves.

In some cases, decompression may be combined with spinal fusion to stabilize the spine.

Benefits of spinal decompression surgery

• Relief from nerve-related pain (back, leg, or arm pain)
• Improved mobility and flexibility
• Reduction of numbness, tingling, or weakness in the extremities
• Enhanced quality of life and ability to return to normal activities

Recovery after spinal decompression surgery

Recovery depends on the type of procedure performed, overall health, and severity of the condition. General recovery guidelines include:

• A hospital stay of 1–3 days for most patients
• Walking soon after surgery to promote healing
• Return to light activities within a few weeks
• Physical therapy to rebuild strength and flexibility
• Gradual return to work and normal activity within 4–6 weeks (depending on the surgery type)

Most patients notice significant improvement in leg or arm pain soon after surgery.

Why choose Iowa Ortho for spinal decompression surgery?

• Board-certified orthopedic spine surgeons with extensive experience
• Expertise in both minimally invasive and traditional decompression procedures
• Comprehensive spine care, including diagnosis, non-surgical treatment, and rehabilitation
• A patient-first approach focused on safety, outcomes, and restoring function

Request an appointment

If you are experiencing persistent back or leg pain, numbness, or weakness caused by spinal nerve compression, spinal decompression surgery may provide lasting relief.

Call Iowa Ortho at 515-247-8400 or request an appointment online today.