Non-Surgical Treatments for Herniated Disc

Sharp, burning pain located in the back, hips, or buttocks. Does this pain sound familiar? More than three million Americans experience a herniated disc every year.  

A herniated disc occurs when the soft core of a spinal disc protrudes through a crack in its tougher outer layer. This painful condition can make everyday activities like getting dressed and driving to work uncomfortable. You don’t have to live in pain; we’re here to help.

SOAR Spine treats patients in Redwood City and Santa Clarita, California, who want to ease their pain from a herniated disc non-surgically. Here, we explain the different methods to help you decide which option is right for you.

What causes a herniated disc?

You probably remember exactly what you were doing and where you were when you herniated your disc. A herniated disc, also known as a slipped or ruptured disc, occurs when a spinal disc's soft, gel-like center pushes through a tear or crack in the tougher outer layer. This can lead to irritation or compression of nearby nerves, causing pain, numbness, or weakness in the affected area.

Herniated discs are caused by:

• Aging
• Repetitive movements
• Sudden injury
• Genetics
• Obesity
• Sedentary lifestyle
• Improper lifting techniques

Pain is often experienced in the lower back but may also radiate down your arm and leg. While pain is one of the most notable features of a herniated disc, it's not the only one. You may experience other symptoms, including:

• Numbness and tingling
• Weakness
• Limited mobility
• Changes in reflexes
• Loss of bladder control

You probably would do anything to make the pain go away. Most herniated discs heal on their own in six weeks to three months. Luckily, we have some treatment options to help bring comfort back into your life.

Non-surgical treatment options

Dealing with an injury can be frustrating as it limits mobility and disrupts routine. While surgery is a last option, the good news is our patients find relief through our non-surgical treatments. Our approaches focus on reducing pain, improving function, and promoting healing without invasive procedures. 

Cortisone

Cortisone is a powerful anti-inflammatory steroid that is commonly used to treat pain and inflammation. We administer cortisone in one of two ways – orally or through injection.  

If other medications do not relieve your back or neck pain, your doctor may recommend corticosteroids taken by mouth. Steroids work to reduce inflammation in the area near the herniated disc, taking pressure off an affected nerve and relieving pain.

Lumbar epidural steroid injections (LESI) are the most effective way of treating pain from a herniated disc. Dr. Lehnert uses X-ray guidance to place a needle in your spine to administer the cortisone. The procedure is done in minutes as an outpatient procedure, and while you might feel slight pressure, you shouldn't experience pain. 

Physical Therapy

Physical therapy is a highly effective treatment for herniated discs. It helps strengthen the muscles surrounding the spine, improve flexibility, and reduce the pressure on the affected disc. Through a customized program of exercises and stretches, we work together to alleviate pain, enhance mobility, and promote healing.

Lifestyle Modifications

Lifestyle modifications can be crucial in managing a herniated disc by reducing stress on the spine and supporting the healing process. Maintaining a healthy weight can help decrease the pressure on spinal discs, while regular exercise can strengthen your core and the muscles supporting your spine. 

It's important to practice proper posture, especially when sitting or lifting, to prevent further strain on the affected area. Always sit up straight, look forward without straining your neck, and place your feet comfortably on the ground. 

If you're a smoker, you might want to consider quitting as smoking can improve blood flow to the spine, promoting disc health and reducing inflammation. 

Stop living in pain and start feeling better today. Contact us to get started on your treatment plan today.