Ruptured Disc Treatment

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Ruptured Disc Treatment

In most cases ruptured disc treatment can be overcome without the need of a surgical procedure. Most sufferers tend to recover from a ruptured disc between one and six months. Usually, rest, followed by a gradual increase in activity can be an effective way to treat a ruptured disc. If resting in bed is the treatment prescribed, ensure the mattress is firm. Avoiding lying on your stomach also helps. If you are lying on your back, place a small pillow beneath your feet which will reduce tension in the back. If pain lessens as you are lying on your side, you may find that placing a pillow between your knees alleviates pain and discomfort.

Back braces can be used; however this device should only be used temporarily. The danger with back braces is that the muscles do not perform to their maximum as they rely on the brace for support. Building the muscles without the brace is preferable.

Ruptured Disc Pain Relief

Ruptured disc pain relief can also be achieved through exercise. A doctor or a physical therapist can provide a list of recommended exercises which can be performed to strengthen the muscles which will in turn protect your back. Walking, swimming, yoga and stretching exercises can be a great treatment for a ruptured disc. However as the exercises are being performed, there must not be any jerking or twisting motion.

Another ruptured disc treatment option is medication. A non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medication can help with pain, stiffness and inflammation. A spinal injection is another quick and relatively pain free option which can be utilized. Cortisone like medication can be injected into the nerve to allow greater movement. The medication will help relieve the pain which in turn will allow increased movement. The increased movement will help with performing the exercises recommended. Over the counter medication can also be effective with reducing the pain.

The treatments above will usually allow for recovery of a ruptured disc, however in approximately 10% of cases, surgery may be necessary. If symptoms worsen, or if there is progressive weakness or numbness after four weeks, surgery may be required. The procedure used most frequently and one that is the most effective is called a discectomy. In this procedure, an incision is made and the material is removed to relieve pain. However, if there is only back pain and no pain in the legs, this procedure will not be performed.

The recovery period after surgery is usually short and at times the physician will recommend the consultation of a physical therapist or will provide a list of acceptable exercise to be performed to strengthen the back muscles.

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