What is the average recovery time of a microdiscectomy?

A complete recovery from a microdiscectomy can take three to four months, according to Spine-health. However, patients can typically return to normal activity six weeks after surgery.

Avoid bending at the waist, lifting, or twisting the body for two to four weeks states the University of Southern California Center for Spinal Surgery. Patients can return to strenuous work or exercise about four to six weeks after surgery if pain has subsided and physical therapy is not needed. If necessary, physical therapy for back exercises begins three to four weeks after surgery. Check with a physician regarding the return to physical activity.