They can occur spontaneously or as a result of injury. Discs become brittle and more susceptible to herniation and bulging as we age, but a herniated disc is not always painful. It can be cured without the need for surgery. The first step to recovery is conservative nonsurgical treatment. This may include pain management and medication. Physical therapy, hydrotherapy, and chiropractic manipulation can also help. Most herniated disks will go away on their own, although the first two treatments are the most effective. Most people recover without surgery within 6 weeks and return to their normal activities.
Patients often experience significant pain after a herniated disc. The pain may be sharp or burning and radiate along the path of the compressed nerve root. In addition, the patient may experience decreased sensation along the affected nerve root. Herniated discs can also lead to a feeling of instability while walking. Physical examination should pay attention to sensory disturbances, weakness, and dermatoma distribution. The spine is typically swollen and stiff and can cause problems walking.
A doctor will perform an examination and ask about your symptoms. In some cases, a doctor may not order any tests. If you are experiencing severe pain, you should take pain medication and rest. Exercise is important because it will strengthen your back muscles and prevent you from injuring yourself again. Even if your back is not completely numb, light activity can help ease the pain. If you experience significant swelling or persistent pain, you should contact a physician.
Nonsurgical treatments for herniated discs are the most common way to alleviate pain. NSAIDs and corticosteroids are the most common treatment modalities. NSAIDs and muscle relaxants are also popular, but they can cause side effects. Massage therapy is a great way to prevent herniated discs and improve overall health. Herniated discs can also lead to other problems, such as a herniated disk.
There are several ways to treat herniated discs. If you experience a herniated disk, you may experience intense pain and discomfort. For milder cases, you can try over-the-counter medications. Other types of narcotic drugs include gabapentin, duloxetine, and amitriptyline. They are effective in relieving mild pain, but can cause nausea, confusion, and constipation.
In addition to physical therapy, herniated discs can be treated with medicine. The most common treatment option is surgery, although some cases may require other forms of medical intervention. MRIs are more effective in diagnosing calcified herniated discs, but they may be more invasive than x-rays. Your surgeon will use the appropriate imaging technique for your condition. A CT scan is an important part of herniated disc treatment, and it is not recommended to undergo this procedure unless you have had a history of herniation.