A herniated disc is a condition that occurs when the spinal discs deteriorate and press on the spinal cord or nerve roots.A herniated disc may require different treatment options depending on your symptoms and the severity of your condition.Here are the treatment options for herniated discs:
Non-Surgical Treatments:Rest:Short-term bed rest may be recommended to relieve the symptoms of a herniated disc.However, prolonged immobility should be avoided.
Painkillers and Anti-inflammatory Drugs: Your doctor may recommend painkillers and anti-inflammatory drugs to reduce low back pain and inflammation.
Physiotherapy:Physical therapists may recommend specific exercises and treatments to relieve herniated disc symptoms and improve spinal stability.
Epidural Steroid Injections:Doctors may recommend epidural steroid injections to reduce pain and inflammation. These injections allow medications to be injected directly into the affected area.
Muscle Relaxants: Muscle relaxants may be prescribed to relieve muscle spasms.
Surgical Treatment Methods:
Surgical treatment is evaluated depending on the symptoms of the herniated disc and the patient’s condition. Below are some of the specific surgical options:
Discectomy:This is a common surgical procedure.It involves the removal of part or all of the herniated disc. This procedure can help relieve symptoms by reducing pressure on the spinal cord or nerve roots.
Microdiscectomy:A discectomy procedure performed under a microscope.It requires a smaller skin incision and the healing process may be faster.
Endoscopic Discectomy:It is a surgical procedure performed with endoscopic methods. It is performed with smaller incisions and the patient’s recovery may be faster.Laminectomy: This procedure involves the removal of bone tissue surrounding the spinal cord. It is used if there is excess bone tissue that can put pressure on the nerve roots.
Emergency Surgical Conditions: Emergency surgery may be required in cases of herniated discs with serious symptoms such as sudden loss of strength in the legs, loss of urinary or faecal control. These conditions are usually called cauda syndrome and require urgent treatment.
After herniated disc surgery, most patients experience a rapid improvement in their symptoms. However, rehabilitation and physiotherapy are also important in the postoperative period. The recovery process can vary from person to person, so it is important to follow your surgeon’s recommendations and instructions.