Have a Herniated Disc? When to Consider Endoscopic Laser Discectomy
Nov 13, 2025
A herniated disc can turn everyday movements into painful challenges. Simple tasks such as bending, walking, or sitting for extended periods can become uncomfortable. If you have been dealing with persistent back or leg pain, you might be wondering when it is time to consider a surgical option.
One minimally invasive procedure, called endoscopic laser discectomy, can provide relief when other treatments have not worked. Understanding how it works and when to consider it can help you make an informed decision about your care.
At Arora Pain Clinic in Torrance, California, board-certified pain management specialist Ripu Arora, MD, MBA, can answer all your questions and help you find relief from a herniated disk.
Between each bone in your spine sits a soft, cushion-like disc that acts as a shock absorber. Over time, one of these discs can become damaged or slip out of place, pressing on nearby nerves. The condition is known as a herniated disc. It can cause pain, numbness, or weakness that travels through your back, legs, or even arms, depending on the disc’s location.
Many people manage a herniated disc with conservative treatments like physical therapy, anti-inflammatory medications, and rest. However, if the pain lingers for several weeks or months despite these efforts, it might be time to explore other options. That is where endoscopic laser discectomy can come in.
Endoscopic laser discectomy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure designed to remove the portion of the herniated disc pressing on a nerve. During the procedure, Dr. Arora makes a tiny incision and inserts an endoscope, which is a thin tube equipped with a light and a camera. It allows Dr. Arora to see the affected area clearly on a monitor.
Using precise laser technology, Dr. Arora gently removes or vaporizes the damaged disc tissue. Because the laser targets only the problem area, it minimizes trauma to surrounding muscles and tissues. The result is less bleeding, less pain, and a faster recovery compared to traditional open surgery.
The procedure typically takes less than an hour, and many patients can go home the same day. Most people notice pain relief almost immediately, with continued improvement over the following weeks as inflammation decreases.
You might be a candidate for endoscopic laser discectomy if conservative treatments have not provided enough relief. Persistent pain that interferes with your ability to work, sleep, or perform daily activities can be a clear sign that something more is needed.
If you experience pain that radiates down your leg or arm, or if you notice muscle weakness or numbness, those symptoms may indicate significant nerve compression.
It is also important to consider this option if imaging tests, such as an MRI, confirm that a herniated disc is the source of your pain. Dr. Arora will review your medical history, evaluate your symptoms, and determine if this procedure is appropriate for you.
Patients seeking to avoid lengthy hospital stays or prolonged recovery periods often find this minimally invasive approach appealing.
One of the biggest advantages of endoscopic laser discectomy is its quick recovery time. Because the incision is small, the muscles surrounding the spine remain largely intact. It means less postoperative pain and fewer complications. Most patients return to light activities within a few days and resume their normal routines within just a few weeks.
The precision of the laser also allows for accurate treatment of the damaged disc without affecting healthy tissue. The accuracy helps preserve spinal stability and reduces the risk of scar tissue forming. For many people, it provides lasting relief and restores mobility without the need for a more invasive surgery.
If you have been living with ongoing back pain that has not improved with nonsurgical treatments, it may be time to discuss endoscopic laser discectomy with Dr. Arora. Call the office or schedule an appointment online today to discuss all your options.