Herniated Disc Treatment
Herniated disc treatment can involve a variety of techniques in order to provide relief from a compressed spinal nerve. Painful nerve compression can occur when the intervertebral disc’s nucleus pulposus (the jelly-like interior) seeps through a tear in the annulus fibrosus (the tough exterior) and enters into the spinal canal. Individuals who are suffering from a herniated disc may experience symptoms of pain, muscle weakness, numbness, cramping, spasms, and/or tingling, which may be felt in the neck, back, hips, buttocks, shoulders, or extremities.
Conservative Treatment
In many cases, the symptoms of a herniated disc can be alleviated through conservative treatments. Some of the most effective and commonly prescribed non-invasive treatments include:
- Pain medications
- Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
- Physical therapy
- Hot/cold therapy
- And others
These herniated disc treatment options should only be pursued under the guidance of a doctor or spine specialist. Be sure to let your doctor know if you are currently taking any medications or have any other health conditions.
Surgical Treatment
A small percentage of individuals affected by a herniated disc may find that conservative herniated disc treatment fails to provide relief. A doctor may recommend herniated disc surgery for these patients. Open back or neck surgery comes with certain risks, including failed back surgery syndrome, hardware rejection, extended recovery times, and infection. Laser Spine Institute has developed safe and effective alternatives to open back or neck surgery. Our laser-assisted procedures are performed on an outpatient basis and utilize very small incisions. If you are located in Phoenix, Tempe, Mesa or anywhere else in the Southwest, and are interested in learning more about these outpatient procedures, contact Laser Spine Institute Scottsdale to schedule a complimentary consultation. We also have several other convenient locations nationwide to serve you.
