There are two primary goals of herniated disk treatment. The first goal is to relieve pain, especially if the pain is severe and debilitating. As for the second goal, the treatment is to help the patient return to a normal level of functioning. Treatment methods depend on a variety of factors. For example, most doctors form a treatment plan based on each patient's symptoms, age and activity level. As long as the problem is not severe, the treatments will begin conservatively. If necessary, the doctor may choose to take a more aggressive approach.
Most patients recover in a few short months after receiving conservative treatment. During the healing process, patients must avoid painful positions. Conservative treatment plans usually involve exercising and pain medication. A physical therapist recommends exercises based on the patient's level of ability. When done right, the exercises can lessen the pain that comes from having a herniated disk. As the pain lessens, physical therapy can help the patient begin to rebuild core strength and stability. Strengthening muscles is also a way for people to prevent future injuries.
Herniated disks tend to heal over time. While a patient is healing, the doctor may prescribe medication for pain relief. The medication also controls inflammation. Pain that doesn't improve with over-the-counter medications may require the use of narcotics or muscle relaxers. Since they have fewer side effects, doctors may choose to prescribe nerve pain medication. Another treatment option is the use of cortisone injections. Since they treat inflammation, the doctor inserts cortisone injections near the spinal nerves. Some doctors use spinal imaging to guide the needle.
If conservative treatment fails, surgery may become the best option for herniated disk treatment. There are times when a disk fragment can lodge into the spinal cord. When this occurs, the patient usually grows weaker as the days go by. Some of the problems that the patient may experience include trouble walking, standing or sitting. Fortunately, doctors can perform surgery to remove the bulging portion of the disk. In rare cases, the doctor may need to remove the entire disk during surgery. When this occurs, the doctor may implant an artificial disk for spinal stability.
Rest is another important part of the treatment process. Whether the treatment was conservative or aggressive, the patient must rest. Patients should reduce their activities for a short time. Along with that, they should also avoid heavy lifting. After the initial rest period, they can begin to increase their activities at a gradual pace. It is never wise to resume activities all at once. Patients who don't take time to rest will increase their odds of developing another injury.
All patients who develop a herniated disk must make lifestyle changes. Eating healthy and exercising on a regular basis is important. Patients will find that maintaining a healthy lifestyle is an excellent way to lessen back pain. A physical therapist works with each patient to teach helpful exercises. If patients complete these exercises regularly, they will increase the flexibility in their spine and legs. In addition, the exercises are a way to strengthen the muscles that support the spine. Another important lifestyle change involves learning how to lift things properly. Lifting heavy objects the wrong way is one of the quickest ways to develop a herniated disk.
Aspen Integrative Medicine offers a non surgical alternative to herniated disc treatment. Located in the Aspen Valley region of Colorado, this center focuses on non surgical alternatives to healing. Contact us today to see how your old injuries can be finally healed.
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