Herniated/bulging/slipped disk:
The procedure is called microdiscectomy
. The surgeon removes the part of the disk that’s pushing on a nerve. There are two ways to do this. In the traditional method, the doctor makes an inch-long cut and detaches the muscles on one side of your back.
Can disc herniation be fixed?
As with bulging discs, there is a spectrum of options to treat herniated discs. If you’ve experienced symptoms for less than 6 weeks and have no nerve damage,
anti-inflammatory medications, physical therapy, and steroid injections (if needed) can help resolve the issue in 6 to 12 weeks
.
What is the fastest way to heal a herniated disc?
- Alternate 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.
Can a herniated disc be fixed naturally?
Herniated discs can be treated naturally in the comfort of your home with proper nutrition, exercise, and therapy
.
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.
Can a herniated disc paralyze you?
With a herniated disc, the capsule cracks or breaks, and the nucleus squeezes out. This can irritate the spinal cord or nearby nerves, causing weakness and numbness in the arms or legs.
A severely herniated disc can cause paralysis
.
Why is my herniated disc not healing?
Sometimes,
the nerves are actually damaged by the pressure from the disc herniation
and may not recover completely. You may also develop scar tissue around the nerves weeks after the operation that causes pain similar to what you had before the operation.
What happens if you let a herniated disc go 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.
Can you push a herniated disc back into place?
If you have back pain from a bulging disc,
do not have your friend try to force it back into place
. This will likely increase, rather than relieve, your pain.
What to avoid when you have a herniated disc?
- Sitting too much. Sitting puts more stress on your spinal discs, especially when slouching forward in a seat. …
- Doing laundry. …
- Vacuuming. …
- Feeding a pet. …
- Strenuous exercise. …
- Shoveling snow or gardening. …
- Learn more:
Is a herniated disc permanent?
Most of the time, pain associated with a herniated disc goes away on its own over a period of weeks or months and
does not cause permanent damage to the spine or nerves
. A herniated disc can occur in any part of the spine, but it is most common in the lower back (the lumbar spine) and the neck (the cervical spine).
What is the most common treatment for herniated discs?
- Oral medications and/or steroid injections to reduce pain and inflammation.
- Physical therapy to reduce stiffness and pressure on the nerves in the spine.
- Hot or cold packs for pain relief.
- Manual manipulation, such as massage or chiropractic care.
How can I naturally shrink a herniated disc?
- Apply heat to your back in the morning or prior to stretching/exercise to decrease muscle tension. …
- Try placing a heating pad or hot compress against your lower back periodically throughout the day.
What percentage of herniated discs require surgery?
When & How to Seek Medical Care
Fortunately,
the majority of herniated discs do not require surgery
. With time, the symptoms of sciatica/radiculopathy improve in approximately 9 out of 10 people. The time to improve varies, ranging from a few days to a few weeks.
What causes a herniated disc?
Disk herniation is most often the result of
a gradual, aging-related wear and tear called disk degeneration
. As people age, the disks become less flexible and more prone to tearing or rupturing with even a minor strain or twist.
Can you massage a herniated disc?
Deep Tissue Massage: There are more than 100 types of massage, but
deep tissue massage is an ideal option if you have a herniated disc
because it uses a great deal of pressure to relieve deep muscle tension and spasms, which develop to prevent muscle motion at the affected area.
Is walking good for a bulging 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.
Can stretching make herniated disc worse?
Getting Started with Stretching
Stretching should be done carefully. It’s important also to do the right types of stretches since
some types actually make your disc herniation worse
. Before beginning any exercise routine, it’s always a good idea to consult with your pain management physician.
How do you sleep with a herniated disc?
- Lay on your back and then roll over gently onto your side.
- Tuck your knees toward your chest and gently curl your torso toward your knees.
- Remember to switch sides from time to time to prevent any imbalances.
Can you feel a herniated disc with your fingers?
Sensations of tingling and numbness
Patients with herniated discs located in the neck can feel numbness and tingling in the hands, fingers, and arm.
Which is worse bulging or herniated disk?
Herniated discs are considered more severe than bulging discs
because they put significant pressure on nearby nerves, which can cause intense pain, inflammation and difficulties with movement.
Can you have a Microdiscectomy twice?
Recurrence of a Disc Herniation
If the disc does herniate again, a revision microdiscectomy will generally be just as successful as the first operation
. However, after a recurrence, the patient is at a higher risk of further recurrences.
How do you know when a herniated disc is getting better?
Your chances are good.
Most people with a herniated disc are better in about four weeks
. Sometimes it takes longer. If you still have pain or numbness after four to six weeks, or if your problem gets worse, talk with your doctor.
Which is worse sciatica or herniated disc?
One of the most important differences between the two conditions is the fact that sciatica can be treated in a relatively short period of time.
Herniated discs, on the other hand, require greater care
. These represent a permanent condition. When left untreated, the impact on quality of life is much more severe.
