what is the best way to deal with degenerated disks in the back besides surgery?

Question

I am starting to experience numbness in my legs and pain when rising in the morning ( laying down doesn't always help)

Answer 1

Everyone has degenerating discs but when it causes leg pain you know it's getting worse not better. There are exercises called the McKenzie exercises look them up on the internet. Also do sit ups to strengthen you abs it really helps with back pain. Check out the Mayo Clinic web site they have the best info on back pain, exercises etc. Good luck

Answer 2

I just read an article in the NY Times that said recent clinical research has shown that time, exercise, and physical therapy as just as effective as surgery for relieving back pain. I would definitely avoid surgery at all costs. The article also said that after 6 months, those who did not have surgery reported the same amount of symptom relief as those who did.

Answer 3

swimming ... water excercise on a regular basis will more than likely help. it help me. i have both lumbar disc and cervical neck disc problems. wheni swim (and am serious about it) i have found it truly helps and basically eliminates the pain and problems i have. If you have insurance see a physical terapist with water excercise program.... or just go to a local pool. i often used a 'noodle' behind my neck and layed on my back for back kicks /laps. it did not help overnight but totally did after a few weeks 1 or 2, and has changed my pain alltogether.

Answer 4

I think that surgury based on what you are describing is necessary. That numbness in your legs could get a lot worse and is risking paralysis.

Answer 5

acupuncture/acupressure. don't knock it if you haven't tried it. and it takes more than a couple of times. so don't give up if you go a couple of times and don't get immediate relief or if it goes away and then comes back. a couple of months of steady treatment and you will see long term results.