Treatment FAQ

what is the treatment for a herniated disc in the lower back

by Mrs. Elta Schmitt II Published 2 years ago Updated 2 years ago
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Medication

Oct 18, 2021 · Herniated Disc Exercise : Increase Lower Back Stability. The second exercise is designed to reduce the pressure on your lower back and the affected disc. We will do that by training the little muscles around your back. The increased stability will also reduce the pressure on the disc. The muscles will take over some of the weight, which helps the disc.

Procedures

The most common procedure used to treat a single herniated disk is microdiskectomy. The procedure is done through a small incision at the level of the disk herniation and often involves the use of a microscope. The herniated part of the disk is removed along with any additional fragments that are putting pressure on the spinal nerve.

Therapy

One of the most common ways to treat lower back pain caused by a bulging or herniated disc is chiropractic care. Research has shown chiropractic care for the spine to be a highly effective method for treating symptoms of bulging and herniated discs, including sciatic nerve pain and lower back pain.

Self-care

Jan 18, 2022 · Exercise or is an important herniated disc treatment. It is also essential for optimal physical and mental health. Exercises and stretches that may help relieve your pain when performed as directed by your physical therapist include: Yoga Cycling Swimming Walking Towel hamstring stretch Neck stretches Back flexion stretch

Nutrition

The most common surgery for herniated discs is called discectomy and involves removal of all or part of the damaged disc and a laminectomy which consists of the removal of a portion of bone that’s covering an affected nerve.

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Physical therapy, exercise and gentle stretching to help relieve pressure on the nerve root Ice and heat therapy for pain relief Manipulation (such as chiropractic manipulation) Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs ( NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen, naproxen or COX-2 inhibitors for pain relief Narcotic pain medications for pain relief

How long for herniated disc to heal without surgery?

When do you need surgery for a herniated disc?

Can herniated discs heal by themselves without surgery?

What to do if you have a bulging disc in your lower back?

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What is the fastest way to heal a herniated disc?

How to heal a herniated disc quicklyAlternate applying heat and cold.Stay as active as you can. Take walks to avoid becoming too stiff from resting too often.Try alternative treatments like acupuncture, massage, or chiropractic.Jan 27, 2022

Can a herniated disc in lower back heal itself?

Herniated disks get better on their own over time or with nonsurgical treatment for 9 out of 10 people. If other treatments don't relieve your symptoms, your healthcare provider may recommend surgery.Jul 1, 2021

How do you treat a herniated disc in the lower back?

Nonsurgical treatment may include:Rest. One to 2 days of bed rest will usually help relieve back and leg pain. ... Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen or naproxen can help relieve pain.Physical therapy. ... Epidural steroid injection.

How long does it take a herniated disc to heal without surgery?

Most people recover from a slipped disc within six weeks without treatment.Apr 9, 2020

Is walking good for herniated disc?

Absolutely. Walking is an excellent choice for patients with herniated discs, as it stimulates blood flow and oxygen to the cells. It also helps keep your discs hydrated, which is important for healing. Other low-impact aerobic activities to try are swimming and cycling.Jan 14, 2019

Is a herniated disc serious?

A herniated disc is a common spinal disorder, and it typically responds well to conservative treatment like gentle exercise or over-the-counter pain medication. But some ruptured disc symptoms warrant a trip to your doctor to prevent serious—and potentially permanent—nerve complications.

What happens if a herniated disc goes untreated?

If a patient has a herniated disc and does nothing to treat it, severe nerve damage and pain can result. Some of the symptoms of untreated herniated discs include: Back/Neck pain. Nerve pain in the arms/legs.Apr 17, 2017

How does a surgeon fix a herniated disc?

Discectomy is the most common surgery used for herniated disc in the lumbar region. In this procedure, the portion of the disc that is causing the pressure on your nerve root is removed. In some cases, the entire disc is removed. The surgeon will access the disc through an incision in your back (or neck).

How painful is a herniated disc?

This pain might shoot into your arm or leg when you cough, sneeze or move into certain positions. Pain is often described as sharp or burning. Numbness or tingling. People who have a herniated disk often have radiating numbness or tingling in the body part served by the affected nerves.Feb 8, 2022

What kind of doctor treats herniated disc in back?

Herniated discs are quite common and do not always need treatment. Most of the time they can be healed by rest; however, if symptoms persist, you may need to see an orthopedic surgeon near you specializing in spine surgery.

Can you make a herniated disc worse?

Can you make a herniated disc worse? The pain from a herniated disc usually is worse when you are active and gets better when you are resting. Coughing, sneezing, sitting, driving, and bending forward may make the pain worse.

Can a chiropractor fix a herniated disc?

Nine out of ten individuals with a herniated disc can heal their condition through non-invasive procedures. If you want to explore conservative options for recovery, chiropractic care is an excellent place to start. A chiropractor can help you heal naturally and relieve your pain.Sep 10, 2021

Why does my buttock hurt?

Sciatica. This is a sharp, often shooting pain that extends from the buttock down the back of one leg. It is caused by pressure on the spinal nerve. Numbness or a tingling sensation in the leg and/or foot. Weakness in the leg and/or foot. Loss of bladder or bowel control.

What is the lumbar spine?

This area is called your lumbar spine. Parts of the lumbar (lower) spine. Other parts of your spine include: Spinal cord and nerves. These "electrical cables" travel through the spinal canal carrying messages between your brain and muscles. Nerve roots branch out from the spinal cord through openings in the vertebrae.

How many bones are in the spine?

Your spine is made up of 24 bones, called vertebrae, that are stacked on top of one another. These bones connect to create a canal that protects the spinal cord.

Can a herniated disc cause lower back pain?

This pressure against the outer ring may cause lower back pain. In a herniated disk, the soft, jelly-like center of the disk can push all the way through the outer ring. (Side and cross-section views shown.)

What is MRI scan?

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan. These studies provide clear images of the body’s soft tissues, including intervertebral disks. Your doctor may order an MRI scan to help confirm the diagnosis and to learn more about which spinal nerves are affected.

How to tell if you have a herniated disk?

During the test, you lie on your back and your doctor carefully lifts your affected leg. Your knee stays straight. If you feel pain down your leg and below the knee, it is a strong indication that you have a herniated disk.

Can lumbar disk herniation be treated with surgery?

Only a small percentage of patients with lumbar disk herniation require surgery. Spine surgery is typically recommended only after a period of nonsurgical treatment has not relieved painful symptoms, or for patients who are experiencing the following symptoms:

Why do you need spine surgery?

The goal is to reduce the symptoms of your condition so your spine can heal. It’s also intended to help prevent future problems. While surgery may eventually be recommended for patients who have severe or debilitating pain that doesn’t improve, it’s not typically the first recommendation for most patients. Often times, conservative methods are ...

Can chiropractic help a herniated disc?

In addition to chiropractic care, your clinician may recommend other treatments for your bulging or herniated disc. The amount of pain you’re experiencing and severity of the bulge or rupture will determine what steps to take next.

How long does it take for a herniated disk to heal?

Most people with a herniated disk don't need surgery. Rest and other treatments should start to improve your symptoms within 4 to 6 weeks. But if your pain doesn’t improve, surgery might be an option. Talk to your doctor about surgery if: You’re not getting relief from pain relievers, injections, and physical therapy.

How to remove a disc?

Diskectomy. During this procedure, your surgeon removes your damaged disk to relieve pressure on your nerves. They can perform the surgery in a couple of ways: 1 Your surgeon performs open diskectomy via a cut in your back or neck. 2 Microdiscectomy is done through a much smaller incision. Your surgeon inserts a thin tube with a camera on one end to see and remove the damaged disk.

What is the procedure to fuse two vertebrae?

After a diskectomy or laminotomy, your surgeon may fuse together the two vertebrae on either side of the disk to stabilize your spine. This is called spinal fusion. Fusing the two disks will stop the bones from moving and prevent you from having any more pain. Artificial disk surgery.

What is the best medicine for back spasms?

And nerve pain medicines, such as amitriptyline ( Elavil, Vanatrip ), duloxetine ( Cymbalta ), ...

How to help a back that hurts?

Rest can relieve swelling and give your back time to heal. While your back hurts, avoid exercise and other activities where you have to bend or lift.

Can you control your bladder?

You can't control your bowels or bladder. Diskectomy. During this procedure, your surgeon removes your damaged disk to relieve pressure on your nerves. They can perform the surgery in a couple of ways: Your surgeon performs open diskectomy via a cut in your back or neck.

How to stop back pain from a sprain?

You need to keep moving so your joints and muscles don't stiffen up. You can also use ice and heat to help relieve your pain. Just place an ice pack or warm wet towel on the area of your back that is sore. You can alternate hot and cold, or use whichever feels best.

How long does it take to heal a herniated disc?

For lumbar and cervical herniated discs, conservative (non-surgical) treatments can usually be applied for around four to six weeks to help reduce pain and discomfort. A process of trial and error is often necessary to find the right combination of treatments.

What is the best treatment for nerve pain?

Physical therapy, exercise and gentle stretching to help relieve pressure on the nerve root. Ice and heat therapy for pain relief. Manipulation (such as chiropractic manipulation) Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs ( NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen, naproxen or COX-2 inhibitors for pain relief.

How to treat a swollen nerve root?

A combination of the following conservative treatment options can be used through at least the first six weeks of discomfort and pain: 1 Physical therapy, exercise and gentle stretching to help relieve pressure on the nerve root 2 Ice and heat therapy for pain relief 3 Manipulation (such as chiropractic manipulation) 4 Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs ( NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen, naproxen or COX-2 inhibitors for pain relief 5 Narcotic pain medications for pain relief 6 Oral steroids to decrease inflammation for pain relief 7 Epidural injections to decrease inflammation for pain relief

Is trial and error necessary?

A process of trial and error is often necessary to find the right combination of treatments. Patients may try one treatment at a time or may find it helpful to use a combination of treatment options at once.

What exercise program is used for herniated lumbar disc?

According to this Clinical Evaluation and Treatment Options for Herniated Lumbar Disc “The McKenzie exercise program is believed to be one of the most beneficial. This program is individualized to the patient’s symptoms and emphasizes exercises that minimize or centralize radiating pain.” [5]

What is a herniated disc?

A herniated disc is when that gel-like material ruptures through the outer layer of disc, and can press on the spinal cord or spinal nerves, resulting in symptoms, including disabling back pain and other associated symptoms that can make everyday activities difficult to perform. [2]

How to get rid of a swollen thigh?

How to do it. – Begin this exercise by standing up with good posture. Now take both hands and place them on both sides of your lower back. Now with the help of your hands push your pelvis forward and extend your spine back. Follow the extension with your neck so that you end up facing the ceiling.

How to reduce pain in lower back?

Physical therapy – performing specific exercises to increase range of motion and strengthen muscles in your lower back and core may help to relieve pain and reduce your chance of re-injuring yourself. Spinal manipulation manipulation of the joints of the lower back may help to improve range of motion and decrease pain.

How long does leg pain last?

Often this pain will last for a few days and then subside, but leg pain, numbness or tingling, and/or weakness of the lower extremity often follows. Typically the leg pain eventually travels below the knee and can even affect the ankle and foot.

Where does disc herniation occur?

Disc herniation most commonly occurs in the lower back (lumbar spine) and involves the displacement of disc material beyond the inter-vertebral disc space. [2] In the most simple terms, the spine is made up of individual vertebrae stacked on top of each other. Between each vertebrae is an intervertebral disc that provides a cushion so ...

What is the condition of lumbar disc herniation?

IMPORTANT: An extremely rare symptom of lumbar disc herniation is the loss of bowel or bladder control, which may signal that a more serious problem is lurking – cauda equina syndrome. This syndrome results from compression of the spinal nerve roots and is considered a medical emergency that requires immediate attention.

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Diagnosis

Treatment

Clinical Trials

Lifestyle and Home Remedies

Your provider will work with you to develop a care plan that may include one or more of these treatment options.
Not all herniated discs require intervention. Treatment may include medication, physiotherapy and surgery.
Medication

Analgesics: To relieve pain.

Ibuprofen


Narcotics: To relieve severe pain.

Codeine


Anticonvulsants: Treats radiating nerve pain.

Gabapentin


Muscle relaxants: To manage muscle spasms.

Metaxalone

Procedures

Spinal surgery: To correct abnormalities.

Therapeutic ultrasound: Uses heat and vibrations from sound waves to treat injuries.

Epidural steroid injection: Injection of cortisone reduces back, neck, arm and leg pain.

Therapy

Physical therapy:Minimizes pain through exercises. Stretching improves flexibility and physical function

Self-care

Always talk to your provider before starting anything.

  • Physical exercise - improves cardiovascular health
  • Heating pad - soothes painful muscles
  • Avoid bed rest and continue low impact activities

Nutrition

Foods to eat:

  • Calcium rich foods such as milk, vegetables, nuts
  • Antioxidants such as oranges
  • Omega 3 fatty acids rich foods such as salmon, fish
  • Sulphur rich foods such as onions, garlic, cabbage
  • Fiber rich foods such as whole grains, nuts, vegetables

Foods to avoid:

  • Processed foods high in nitrites such as Processed meat
  • High sugar, saturated fats, trans fat foods
  • Foods containing corn syrup

Specialist to consult

Neurologist
Specializes in treating diseases of the nervous system, which includes the brain, the spinal cord, and the nerves.
Neurosurgeon
Specializes in surgery on the nervous system, especially the brain and spinal cord.
Emergency medicine specialist
Specializes in identifying and managing illnesses or injuries requiring immediate medical attention.
Orthopedic surgeon
Specializes in the surgery of bone and joint disorders.
Primary care physician
Specializes in the acute and chronic illnesses and provides preventive care and health.

Preparing For Your Appointment

  • During the physical exam, your doctor will check your back for tenderness. You might be asked to lie flat and move your legs into various positions to help determine the cause of your pain. Your doctor may also perform a neurological exam to check your: 1. Reflexes 2. Muscle strength 3. W…
See more on mayoclinic.org

What Is A Herniated Disc?

  • Conservative treatment — mainly modifying activities to avoid movement that causes pain and taking pain medication — relieves symptoms in most people within a few days or weeks.
See more on mayoclinic.org

Non-Surgical Treatment Options

  • Explore Mayo Clinic studiestesting new treatments, interventions and tests as a means to prevent, detect, treat or manage this condition.
See more on mayoclinic.org

Surgical Treatment Options

  • Besides taking the pain medications your doctor recommends, try: 1. Applying heat or cold.Initially, cold packs can be used to relieve pain and inflammation. After a few days, you might switch to gentle heat to give relief and comfort. 2. Avoiding too much bed rest.Staying in bed can lead to stiff joints and weak muscles — which can complicate your recovery. Instead, rest in a po…
See more on mayoclinic.org

Conclusion

  • You're likely to start by seeing your family doctor. You might be referred to a doctor specializing in physical medicine and rehabilitation, orthopedic surgery, neurology, or neurosurgery.
See more on mayoclinic.org

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