Many people brush off a slipped disc, managing pain with heat packs or over-the-counter pills. But what starts as occasional discomfort can turn into something much more serious — such as sciatica or spinal stenosis, two conditions that can cause long-term nerve damage, mobility issues, and even problems with bladder control.
At Manipal Hospital in Bengaluru, cutting-edge robotic-assisted spine surgery is giving patients a second chance at a pain-free life — with greater precision, faster recovery, and fewer complications.
The Hidden Risks of a Slipped Disc
While a slipped (or herniated) disc might seem like a minor issue, it can place pressure on nearby nerves. This can trigger:
- Sciatica, which causes sharp, shooting pain from the lower back down to the leg.
- Spinal stenosis, a condition where the spinal canal narrows and compresses nerves, typically in the lower back or neck.
Both conditions are frequently underdiagnosed or overlooked — yet they can result in:
- Persistent pain and numbness
- Difficulty walking or standing for long periods
- Muscle weakness
- In severe cases, loss of bladder or bowel control
What Causes These Conditions?
- Sciatica commonly affects adults aged 30–50. Risk factors include a sedentary lifestyle, obesity, physical strain, pregnancy, bone spurs, and poor posture.
- Spinal stenosis is more common in people over 50 and can be caused by age-related spinal degeneration, arthritis, past injuries, or even congenital issues.
When Conservative Treatment Fails
Initial treatment for these spine disorders often includes physiotherapy, medication, and rest. However, when symptoms persist or worsen, surgery may be the most effective option.
Robotic-assisted spine surgery is transforming spinal care by giving surgeons enhanced control and accuracy. This technology allows for:
- Smaller incisions
- More precise implant placement
- Reduced risk of complications
- Faster recovery times
Real Stories of Recovery: Aziza & Mohammed
Two recent patients at Manipal Hospital, Old Airport Road — Aziza Adadi Rajabu from Tanzania and Mohammed Salim Al Dowaiki from Oman — illustrate how life-changing robotic spine surgery can be.
- Aziza, a 63-year-old retired banker, had been suffering from severe lower back and leg pain for over two years. Walking short distances became unbearable.
- Mohammed, a 37-year-old active professional, experienced sudden leg pain, urinary issues, and muscle weakness caused by a deteriorating spinal condition.
After thorough evaluation, Aziza was diagnosed with spondylolisthesis and spinal canal stenosis, while Mohammed had a severe disc herniation compressing critical nerve roots.
Both underwent robotic-assisted spinal fusion surgeries, including decompression of nerve structures and stabilization with rods and screws to prevent abnormal spine movement.
Fast, Dramatic Recovery
Recovery was remarkably fast:
- Aziza was walking within hours of surgery and experienced a dramatic drop in pain levels.
- Mohammed saw immediate relief from leg pain and urinary problems, and regained strength in his lower limbs.
Key Takeaway
Spinal conditions like sciatica and stenosis are often ignored until they become debilitating. But early diagnosis and modern treatments — especially robotic-assisted spine surgery — offer a way back to a pain-free, active life.
The journeys of Aziza and Mohammed are powerful reminders: Don’t wait. Act early, and choose the right care.
