Treating herniated discs involves selecting methods that alleviate the symptoms and manifestations of the condition. The intervertebral disc, which cushions and prevents friction between the vertebrae, has its internal contents displaced or exposed; therefore, symptoms arise that can be debilitating. Understanding the location, severity, type, and symptoms the patient presents is essential to applying the most appropriate herniated disc treatment, as both conservative and surgical approaches exist.
Mild herniated discs can be asymptomatic; however, many patients suffering from this condition may experience uncomfortable and painful symptoms as a result of the imbalance caused by the displacement of the intervertebral disc and the compression of adjacent nerve structures.
Considering these factors, the most common symptoms of herniated discs include:
These symptoms can vary depending on the location of the herniated disc. For example, pain can radiate to the arms and shoulders in the case of a cervical herniated disc; to the ribs if the herniation is in the thoracic spine; and to the buttocks, sciatic nerve region, and legs in the case of lumbar herniations.
One of the most frequent questions from those about to undergo treatment for a herniated disc is whether it is curable. Yes, it is, but many factors must be considered, such as the severity of the case, the causes of the herniated disc, and other individual characteristics.
Herniated discs due to, for example, degenerative factors or aging could recur over time.
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Both conservative and surgical methods can be used to treat herniated discs. More than 90% of patients can achieve a significant improvement in the quality of life with conservative treatments, while the rest of the patients require surgical intervention.
Conservative treatment for herniated discs can be performed using various methods. Some of these include:
Of all the conservative treatments, physical therapy is perhaps the most important and effective for the patient, as the sessions aim to strengthen and stretch the affected area of the spine, promoting nerve decompression and improving pain symptoms.
Medications can be a form of treatment for herniated discs and help relieve the symptoms of the condition. The main classes of medications are listed below:
Surgical intervention for herniated discs is usually performed when conservative treatment does not produce the expected improvement in symptom:
A caudal epidural injection involves injecting an anti-inflammatory medication into the lumbar region, near the coccyx. The goal of this injection is to reduce inflammation and relieve pain in the lower back, legs, or buttocks.
This surgery involves the partial or total removal of a herniated or degenerated vertebral disc in the neck. This will relieve symptoms such as radiculopathy and myelopathy.
A minimally invasive surgery to remove portions of the degenerated disc. Only the tissues that relieve internal pressure are removed without compromising spinal stability.
A lumbar fusion, also called spinal fusion, relieves lower back pain by treating a degenerated or damaged disc. The damaged disc is removed, and the vertebra above and below it are fused together. A fusion can reduce or eliminate your pain.
Each case should be evaluated and treated individually, but fortunately, more than 60% of patients with herniated discs respond well to conservative treatment. The main factors to consider when choosing treatment include:
Early surgical intervention offers the best results in patients with acute neurological deficits, such as weakness, loss of bowel and bladder control, or significant sensory loss.
The period with the highest probability of herniated disc reabsorption and physical readaptation is 60 days from onset. Therefore, patients with recent herniated discs without neurological deficits receive primarily clinical treatment, while those with long-standing symptoms benefit from surgical intervention.
Large, desiccated herniated discs or those in critical locations are examples of situations in which clinical treatment is less likely to succeed.
Patients who do not improve with the clinical treatment and having recurrent symptoms should consider surgical intervention.
Treatment for herniated discs is best performed and monitored by physicians experienced in spinal health. If surgery is required, it is important to select a surgeon experienced in and specializing in spinal procedures. Before the pain caused by a herniated disc becomes a more serious health problem, it’s best to consult a healthcare professional.
Instead of letting it affect your life, you can contact New York Pain Medicine Associates to begin managing your pain. Whatever your condition, our specialists can treat it with an innovative and comprehensive approach. Contact us and schedule an appointment.