Treating a herniated disc requires a tailored approach to relieve pain, promote healing, and improve overall movement and function. There are many options for treating a herniated disc, and certain factors will help guide your specific plan, such as:
- Severity of herniated disc
- location of the hernia
- degree of nerve involvement
- your specific symptoms
- your overall health
- Activity and Lifestyle Considerations
5 Treatment Options for Herniated Discs
Knowing your options can make a big difference in making decisions about your care. Exploring these five herniated disc treatment options can help you ask the right questions and be an active part of developing an individualized care plan.
1. Rest and adjust your activity
Often, the first step in treating a herniated disc is to rest and adjust your activity level. This includes avoiding activities that may cause more pain or stress on the spine to promote healing and reduce inflammation.
Your doctor may recommend a temporary break from work or changes to your daily routine to reduce pressure on the affected area. However, prolonged bed rest is not recommended as this may cause muscle weakness, loss of range of motion, stiffness, and increased pain.
A gradual return to appropriate activity under the direction of your physician is key, and core strength and flexibility should be encouraged.
2. Work with a physical therapist
A skilled physical therapist can develop a custom exercise program to improve the strength of the muscles around the spine, increase flexibility, and promote healthier movement and posture.
An ideal workout includes gentle stretches, core strengthening, and low-impact cardio. You’ll also learn proper body mechanics, including proper bending and lifting, to help prevent future injuries.
3. Change your lifestyle
Making adjustments to your lifestyle can help you minimize discomfort and maximize stress relief. Maintaining a healthy weight can reduce the pressure on the spine and reduce the chance of further complications. Participating in low-impact exercise such as swimming or walking can help strengthen the core muscles that support the spine, burn calories, and improve overall flexibility.
Regular exercise and maintaining a healthy weight aren’t the only lifestyle changes that can help relieve pain from a herniated disc. By using correct body mechanics when lifting objects and avoiding repetitive twisting or bending motions, you can help reduce re-injury. Investing in quality ergonomic furniture can also help ease discomfort when sitting for long periods of time.
4. Take medication to relieve symptoms
Controlling pain and reducing inflammation are key components of herniated disc treatment. Both prescription and over-the-counter medicines can help with these goals.
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), including ibuprofen and naproxen sodium, can relieve pain and swelling. Muscle relaxants may also be prescribed to relieve muscle spasms. In some cases, oral steroids or steroid injections are recommended to reduce inflammation around the affected nerve.
It is very important to consult a healthcare professional before taking any medication, as potential side effects and interactions with other medications or medical conditions must be considered.
5. Discuss surgical options
Surgery may be required if traditional treatments for a herniated disc are unsuccessful or if you develop severe symptoms such as persistent weakness, loss of bladder or bowel control. The decision to undergo surgery is a significant one and should only be made after a thorough evaluation by a qualified spine surgeon.
The most common surgery for a herniated disc is a discectomy, which involves removing part or all of the disc that is pressing on the nerve. In some cases, spinal fusion may be required to permanently join the bones of the spine to strengthen and stabilize the spine.
Find the right treatment for you
Treatment for a herniated disc usually requires ongoing monitoring and follow-up with your doctor. It is important to communicate any changes in symptoms or concerns about back pain with your healthcare team. Regular checkups and evaluations will allow your medical team to reassess and revise your treatment plan to ensure maximum relief.
If you have a herniated disc, call today to discuss your options and get relief!
