Newsreader Peter Overton is expected back at work next week after having spinal surgery.

Overton, 48, has posted a selfie from his hospital bed undergoing surgery on Monday to repair a ruptured disc.

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Overton was suffering constant pain in his right arm while reading the news last week and ended up almost losing all feeling in his arm and hand, according to the 9news website.

An MRI scan late last week revealed that he had a ruptured disc near the top of his spine and doctors said he would need an immediate operation to prevent permanent nerve damage.

After awakening from surgery he posted a selfie with his wife Jessica Rowe from his hospital bed.

“My darling wife @JessRowe a delight 2 see after emerging from spinal surgery,” he tweeted.

Georgie Gardner and Deborah Knight will read Sydney’s 6pm news in Overton’s absence, a Nine spokesperson said on Tuesday.

My darling wife @JessRowe a delight 2 see after emerging from spinal surgery. & Tks my @9NewsSyd mates 4 fab support pic.twitter.com/VwkvqHsZvq

— Peter Overton (@PeterOverton) March 23, 2015