Non-Surgical Treatments for Herniated Discs- Back pain with leg pain is a very common health problem encountered by many people around the world. One big reason for this pain is a condition called a herniated disc, also known as a slipped disc or ruptured disc. It happens when the soft part inside a spinal disc pushes out through a crack in the outer, tougher layer. This can press on nearby nerves and cause pain, pressure, or discomfort.
The causes of a herniated disc can be ageing, repetitive lifting, sudden twisting motions, poor posture, or even genetic factors. A herniated disc can severely affect a person’s daily lifestyle, making simple tasks like walking, sitting, or even sleeping uncomfortable. People may experience symptoms like pain in the back, legs (sciatica), numbness, or weakness.
According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), about 1 in every 20 adults over the age of 30 has experienced some form of disc herniation. The condition may sound scary, but the good news is that surgery is not always needed. In fact, many people find significant relief through non-surgical treatments.
In this blog, we will explore non-surgical options for treating herniated discs, their types, benefits, and when you should see a doctor.
What is a Herniated Disc?
To understand the treatment, let’s first understand the condition.
The spine is made up of a series of bones called vertebrae, and between each of these bones are discs. These discs act as shock absorbers and help with movement and flexibility. Each disc has a soft, jelly-like centre (nucleus pulposus) and a tougher outer ring (annulus fibrosus).
A herniated disc occurs when the inner gel leaks out through a tear in the outer ring. This herniation can press on nearby nerves and cause pain or discomfort.
Symptoms of a herniated disc may include:
- Sharp pain in the back or neck
- Numbness or tingling in the arms or legs
- Muscle weakness
- Pain that worsens with movement
The location of the herniation (cervical, thoracic, or lumbar spine) often determines the type and intensity of symptoms.
Available Treatment Options: Surgical vs. Non-Surgical
Treatments for herniated discs fall into two main categories: non-surgical and surgical.
Non-Surgical Treatment
Fortunately, most people recover without surgery. Non-surgical options aim to relieve pain, reduce inflammation, improve mobility, and strengthen the back muscles. Let’s talk about the non-surgical treatments for herniated discs
Types of Non-Surgical Treatments for Herniated Discs
Non-surgical treatments are usually the first line of defence. They are safe, effective, and less invasive. Here are the most common types:
- Physical Therapy
One of the most recommended treatments, physical therapy helps strengthen the muscles around the spine, improve flexibility, and reduce pressure on the disc. It works best in early disc prolapse.
- Medications
- Pain relievers (like ibuprofen)
- Muscle relaxants
- Nerve pain medications (like gabapentin)
These help manage symptoms, especially during the initial flare-up.
- Epidural Injections
A mixture of local anaesthetics and corticosteroids is injected near the affected nerve to reduce inflammation and provide temporary relief. This is especially helpful for leg pain or sciatica.
- Intradiscal treatment
Intradiscal treatment, such as intradiscal ozone therapy, local anaesthetics, or platelet-rich plasma injected into the dis,c serves as an excellent treatment. It acts by reducing the disc size from inside and repairing the torn disc, thereby decreasing inflammation in the surrounding nerves.
- Radio Frequency Ablation (RFA)
In long-standing disc-related issues, small nerves around the joints of adjacent vertebrae get inflamed and cause back pain in addition to disc-mediated pain. Radiofrequency ablation of these nerves helps to reduce inflammation around the joints and the major spinal nerves exiting close to them, and reduce sciatica-like symptoms, in addition to relief from back pain.
- Nerve Blocks
Nerve block treatment includes the blockage of nerve signals from travelling, thus stopping the pain signals to the brain.
Other Treatment Options
There are many simple, non-surgical ways to help with a herniated disc. One option is acupuncture, where thin needles are gently placed on certain parts of the body to reduce pain and help the body heal. Making lifestyle changes can also make a big difference, like sitting and standing with good posture, not lifting heavy things, quitting smoking, and staying at a healthy weight.
Traction therapy is another method that gently stretches the spine to ease pressure on the disc and nearby nerves. You can also use heat and cold therapy. Some people also get relief from chiropractic care, where trained experts adjust the spine, but this should always be done by a professional.
Surgical Treatment
Surgery may be recommended when non-surgical methods fail to provide relief after several weeks or if the herniation causes loss of bladder control, severe weakness, or persistent pain.
Common surgical options include:
Discectomy: Removing part of the herniated disc.
Laminectomy: Removing part of a vertebra to relieve pressure.
Spinal Fusion: Fusing two or more vertebrae to stabilise the spine.
While effective, surgeries come with risks like infections, nerve damage, or long recovery times.
Benefits of Non-Surgical Treatment for Herniated Disc
Choosing non-surgical treatment offers many advantages:
No Recovery Downtime – Unlike surgery, which requires weeks or even months of healing, non-surgical treatments allow patients to continue daily activities with minimal disruption.
Lower Risk – There is no risk of surgical complications like infection, anaesthesia issues, or nerve injury.
Cost-Effective – Non-surgical treatments are often less expensive compared to hospital stays and surgeries.
Customizable Approach – Treatment plans can be tailored to the individual’s symptoms, lifestyle, and needs.
Focus on Root Cause – Rehabilitation therapies not only manage symptoms but also aim to strengthen the spine, prevent recurrence, and improve long-term spine health.
Best Non-Surgical Treatments for Herniated Discs
When it comes to treating herniated discs without surgery, Pain Medics Clinic stands out as a top choice. Here is why:
Experienced Experts – Our team includes World Institute of Pain-certified pain specialists, physical therapists, and spine care professionals who focus on non-invasive solutions.
Advanced Technology – We use the latest diagnostic tools and equipment to design customised treatment plans for each patient.
Patient-Centred Care – Every individual’s pain is unique. We prioritise your comfort, lifestyle, and goals in every step of the recovery process.
Proven Results – Our patients have found long-term relief from herniated disc pain through non-surgical programs.
Whether you need physical therapy, non-surgical interventions, or lifestyle guidance, Pain Medics Clinic provides comprehensive care under one roof. We focus on healing, not just treating symptoms.
Read More: Frozen Shoulder: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment Options
Conclusion
A herniated disc may be painful, but it does not always need surgery. Non-surgical treatments offer effective, safe, and affordable options to relieve pain and restore your daily life. With early intervention and the right care team, you can recover without going under the knife.
If you or someone you love is suffering from a herniated disc, Pain Medics Clinic is here to help you get back to life, pain-free and surgery-free.
