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I had a disc removed after suffering back and leg pain for over two years. The pain is better, but I'm still not very sure footed. Will I ever get back to normal?

We're still not sure about this. Recent studies show that disc herniation and the back pain that comes with it affect balance, muscle control, and posture.

Pressure from the disc on the spinal nerve roots affects the nerve's ability to control the muscles. The muscles, in turn, help control movement and balance. A quick reaction time by muscles is needed in response to sudden movements. All of this is damaged by disc herniation.

Nerve recovery takes months. Recovery after surgery may be expected to take as long or longer. Apparently, regaining full control of muscles isn't automatic.

Reference: 

Ville Leinonen, MD, et al. Lumbar Paraspinal Muscle Function, Perception of Lumbar Position, and Postural Control in Disc Herniation-Related Back Pain. In Spine. April 15, 2003. Vol. 28. No. 8. Pp. 842-848.


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