Learn About Your Treatment Options for Back Pain
Back pain is very common, especially as people get older. Sometimes it's caused by a pulled muscle and can be eased with rest, stretching or other home remedies. Other times, the problem may be more serious, requiring a trip to the doctor. If you've been told you have a herniated disc, it's understandable that you might be nervous about whether you'll need surgery. But although anything involving the spine sounds serious, in many cases, surgery isn't the first treatment option. Most people improve with less invasive treatments and never need an operation. Here's some information about herniated discs, how they're treated and when surgery may be recommended.
What is a herniated disc?
The spine is made up of bones called vertebrae. Between these bones are soft, cushion-like discs that help absorb shock and allow the spine to move comfortably. Herniated discs happen when the soft center of a disc pushes through a crack in its tougher outer layer. This can irritate nearby nerves and cause symptoms such as back or neck pain, numbness or tingling, muscle weakness or pain that travels to the arms or legs.
How are herniated discs usually treated?
Most herniated discs don't require surgery. In fact, many people start feeling better within a few weeks or months with conservative treatment. Common treatments include:
- Resting for short periods while staying as active as possible
- Physical therapy to improve strength and flexibility
- Over-the-counter or prescription pain medications
- Anti-inflammatory medications
- Steroid injections to reduce inflammation around irritated nerves
Doctors often recommend trying these treatments before considering surgery unless symptoms are severe.
When might surgery be needed?
Surgery is usually considered only when symptoms aren't improving or when nerve problems become serious. You may be a candidate for surgery if:
- Pain remains severe after several weeks or months of treatment
- Pain makes it difficult to work, sleep or perform daily activities
- You develop significant muscle weakness
- Numbness worsens
- You experience loss of bladder or bowel control
These situations suggest that a nerve is being compressed and may need surgical treatment.
What types of surgery are available?
The most common surgery for a herniated disc is called a discectomy or microdiscectomy. During this procedure, a surgeon removes the portion of the disc that is pressing on the nerve. In some cases, a small part of nearby bone may also be removed to create more space for the nerve. Many of these procedures are performed using minimally invasive techniques, which use small incisions, but the exact procedure depends on the location of the herniated disc and the patient's symptoms.
What is recovery from surgery like?
Recovery varies from person to person, but many patients go home the same day or after a short hospital stay. Walking is often encouraged soon after surgery and most people gradually return to normal activities over several weeks, although heavy lifting and strenuous activities are usually restricted at first. Physical therapy may be recommended to help rebuild strength and improve movement.
How successful is surgery?
Herniated disc surgery is often very successful. Many people experience significant relief from leg pain, arm pain and other nerve-related symptoms. A herniated disc can be painful and frustrating, but fortunately, surgery isn't necessary for most people. If symptoms persist despite treatment, however, surgery may offer lasting relief and help you get back to the activities you enjoy.
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