Is it normal to be back at work but not on full duty yet?

Yes. Returning to some work and returning to full work are often months apart.

Does heavy lifting make the disc more likely to go again?

It isn’t clear. In the three studies that compared them, heavy and light work showed no clear difference, but the data are thin.

Microdiscectomy · Weeks 7 to 12

Microdiscectomy Recovery, Weeks 7 to 12: What’s Normal

You’re back on site running layout, watching the crew lift what you can’t yet, counting which moves still feel off-limits.

New Zealand’s ACC guide puts a full return to heavy work at about 8 to 12 weeks, and very heavy work at 12 to 16 or more. Bending, twisting and lifting together come back last.

What’s normal now

New Zealand’s ACC guide, based on spine surgeons’ opinion, puts full return to heavy work at about 8 to 12 weeks, very heavy at 12 to 16 or more. Source
Nerves recover in an order: pain usually first, then leg strength, and sensation last. Source
Bending, twisting and lifting together come back last. Source
Moving early looks safe. Full loads are where a staged return comes in. Source

Free milestone map

Where are you in recovery?

Pick your surgery and your week. Your map opens right here: what’s normal now, what usually comes next, and the guides for each stage. No email needed.

What usually comes next

Move up a rung only when your surgeon or PT clears it and the last rung left your leg no worse the next morning. Source
A middle rung: heavier lifts from knee or waist height, short bouts bent forward, limited time on vibrating equipment. Source

Questions to bring to your surgeon or PT

What’s my lifting limit, in pounds, and until when? Source
Which rung of a staged return am I cleared for now? Source
What result should I see from rehab, and by when? Source

Don’t wait for your next visit

Numbness around or under your genitals, or around your bottom: go to the ER or call 911. Don’t drive yourself. Source
New trouble starting to pee, or controlling your bladder or bowels: go to the ER or call 911. Source
Weakness or numbness in both legs that’s severe or getting worse, or sciatica in both legs: go to the ER or call 911. Source
Worsening weakness in one leg, like a foot that starts to drag: call your surgeon the same day. Source

Chest pain or trouble breathing: call 911.

Questions men ask at this stage

Is it normal to be back at work but not on full duty yet?: Yes. Returning to some work and returning to full work are often months apart. Source
Does heavy lifting make the disc more likely to go again?: It isn’t clear. In the three studies that compared them, heavy and light work showed no clear difference, but the data are thin. Source