can generally be the first one to surface. But nerve pain is generally always the last to subside.
There are so many variables it almost impossible to outline a 'standard' course.
With some of my Lumbar surgeries, the nerve pain was the very last to get better. I had good results in many of my lumbar surgeries, I regained strength, etc,
However, the nerve pain did not get better until almost 9 months after the initial problems. I also still have some permanent nerve damage, a result of disc impingement on a nerve root too long, waiting too long for surgery and a very long surgical procedures.
Its so hard to 'bookcase' spinal problems. What may be true for one person, is the not valid for another person.

Using your words:
1. Numb/weak -> 2. pain -> 3. no sciatica present.

Recovery:
- Surgery
- Weakness, then recovery
- Pain Reduction
- Through Medication, Physical Therapy, etc
- No Sciatica pain
- ?

My last lumbar surgery was in 1984, I still am bothered by sciatica.