How do you treat herniated disk. Is surgery inevitable? I do not want to be on long term pain management.?

Answer 1

There are other options besides surgery. They are having more luck now with spinal decompression. A pain management doctor has more options and ideas, probably, than a general practitioner. There are TENS units to support the muscles around it, implants for mechanical pain control, and other options. I really recommend you go to a pain clinic, and let them know your concerns about finding a permanent solution as opposed to meds forever.

Answer 2

A herniated disk occurs when the cushion between your vertebrae begins to wear down. Instead of acting as a cushion, the vertebrae can actually press on nerves, resulting in pain. Surgery is necessary for a herniated disk if other methods to relieve the back pain do not work. Preparing for herniated disk surgery is largely a matter of knowing what to expect

Answer 3

Glucosamine and chondroitin are recommended for improving the condition. Traction of spine will give some relief. Pain meds such as Naprosyn are for pain relief. If the herniation is severe, it could lead to neurologic problems like strength, motor function, etc., location depending on the level of the spine where the herniation has occurred. Surgery is a lot dependent on the severity of the problem.

Answer 4

Surgery won't be necessary if you begin treating it right away. There are many things you can do.

First, get yourself to the chiropractor and get an analysis from him/her. He'll probably give you some exercises to do at home to help you along.

To relieve swelling start taking Glucosamine Sulfate 1500mg a day, MSM 1200 to 2000mg a day, and Celadrin 500mg three times a day. Some companies sell these in combinations which may be cheaper than buying them separately. These supplements are much safer than pain medication and they have been shown to alleviate pain and swelling. Celadrin also comes in a cream that you can use externally.

The book "Pain Erasure" by Bonnie Prudden has some excellent techniques for relieving pain that I have also used.

You can also try acupuncture and massage. Good luck to you!

Answer 5

Surgery sooner the better younger the better lots of walking before and tons after but never over do it and allow it to heal vitamins stretching slow at first then never stop walking and stretching.Would suggest getting it done in the spring to have warm weather for walking and not leting the cold set in it.Also there is a very good machine now that almost takes the place of Dr.s wich it was around when I had mine it is alot less invasive and thus quicker to heal with less chance of Dr. mistakes its like a vice they hook up to you 3 or 4 stitch scar and a claw like in the childrens arcades that grabs toys only grabs the peices of disc Good luck no pain meds hurry.

Answer 6

The best treatment for most herniated disc cases is something called Flexion Distraction or Cox Distraction. It's something that many chiropractors can do for you. Surgery is your treatment of last resort for various reasons. Find a doctor in your area that is certified in this technique and make an appointment to discuss your options with regard to your specific case.

http://www.coxtechnic.com/referrals.asp

Answer 7

Depends on how severely herniated it is. Physical therapy can often help to reduce the herniation and then once achieved a physical therapist can teach you exercises to prevent it happening again.
If it is a bad herniation, with a rupture, it will probably take surgery to correct.

Answer 8

Pl do't go for surgery.It is hell.i Had ruptured disk and surgery was advised. but i managed with exercises.good physical therapist can tell you some.But do't strain much physically and mentally some times back pain leads to depression. if such thing happens i advise u to go for mild antidepressants and anti anxiety medicines.but one thing u must be prepared it takes long like3 years for u to come to n ormal pain free life like before.
try to avoid sitting on the floor or stairs .I f you can go for swimming that is very best for back.take care.good luck

Answer 9

You could try spinal decompression. Or at least talk to a doctor who provides this procedure, as well as talking to the doctor you have now. It's a non surgical procedure.

Answer 10

surgery might be the best way because it is extremely difficult to live with....pain medication might be the answer right now but you should consult a Dr.