Herniated Disc Treatment

What Is a Herniated Disc and How Do I Find Treatment?

Herniated disc treatment can take a variety of forms, but before knowing which course of treatment is right for you, it might help to know a bit more about the condition. A herniated disc, which is an intervertebral disc that has torn open and extruded its inner disc material into the spinal canal, can be caused by sudden injury, disease, or overexertion, though the single most common cause is degeneration that accompanies the natural aging process. As we age, all the components of our spinal anatomy begin to deteriorate, but the cartilaginous discs are often the first to lose water content, height, and elasticity. This deterioration in structural integrity makes the discs prone to herniation.

Many cases of disc herniation remain asymptomatic, though if the inner disc material comes into contact with nearby spinal nerves or the spinal cord itself, painful symptoms can present. If you are suffering from tingling, numbness, pain or weakness caused by a herniated disc, you will likely be able to manage your symptoms with a regimen of non-operative, conservative treatment.

Lifestyle Alterations

There are a variety of ways that you can reduce pain and help your herniated disc to heal on its own. While not everyone has the time or the resources to attend physical therapy sessions or yoga classes, several small, easy changes in your lifestyle may bring you the relief you require:

• Improve your posture while sitting and standing
• Stop smoking to increase bone health and nutrient absorption
• Stay active with doctor-approved, low-impact exercises
• Make sure your mattress and pillow provide proper spine support
• Avoid overexerting yourself or straining your spine with heavy lifting
• Consider a supportive spine brace that you can wear under your clothes

Other Conservative Herniated Disc Treatment Options

Your primary care physician or spine specialist may suggest that you integrate other conservative treatment options into your lifestyle alterations, such as pain medication, cold compresses, heat therapy, or intermittent periods of rest. However, if your herniated disc symptoms become chronic despite weeks or months of conservative treatments, Laser Spine Institute may be able to help. Our minimally invasive procedures are the safe and effective alternatives to open back or neck surgery. Contact a Laser Spine Institute consultation facility today to find out more and to receive a complimentary review of your MRI or CT scan.