Does wearing a rigid neck brace help with a herniated disc?

Question

My Doctor gave me a rigid neck brace to wear to help with a herniated disc in my neck, I am suppose to wear it until I go back to the Doctor in 3 weeks. He said I really needed to completely rest my neck and give the nerves that are irritated a chance to heal. I think it may be helping but it is hard to tell. Does this treatment sound right ? I am suppose to start physical therapy next week.

Answer 1

I had to wear a neck brace for almost 3 months before I could even begin physical therapy, but I had 2 herniated discs (C5-6 and C 6-7), which still haven't completely healed. A lot depends on how bad the disc is herniated and it's location.
Yes, the treatment sounds right, especially if you had an EMG and an MRI to see how bad the nerve damage was and where the disc was injured. Psychical therapy was actually fun compared to the stupid brace. Best of luck.

Answer 2

It is right. the brace prevent the vertebrae from moving therefore it prevents and nerves from getting moved or squished. Although it is uncomfortable, take his advice and do what he said. Eventually they should give you a soft collar and that will be more comfortable.....