Usually, conservative therapy is enough to treat the pain you are suffering from. This therapy mostly involves relaxation and positioning, exercise, and painkillers in injections or tablet form. Say, for instance, if you are suffering from a slipped disc, you might or might not cause any observable symptoms, whereas others lead to severe back pain. 

In many people, the symptoms go away on their own without treatment within six weeks. Until then, there are a bunch of herniated disc treatment options that focus on helping relieve the pain and improve or maintain mobility. Let’s discuss this matter in detail, starting with… 

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What Causes A Bulging Disk?

Every disc in your spine possesses a soft, gel-like center and firmer outer layers, kind of like a jelly doughnut. With time, the outer layer grows weak and can crack. A herniated disc happens when the inner jelly substance pushes through the crack and presses on your spinal cord. It might press on nearby spinal nerves, resulting in the symptoms of a herniated disc. You might need non surgical orthopedic treatment if you suffer from a disc rupture. This condition arises due to a bunch of reasons, including:

1. Aging
2. Improper lifting of heavy objects
3. Performing repetitive twisting or bending motions
4. Traumatic injuries

Non Surgical Treatment For Herniated Disc

Usually, for non surgical herniated disc treatment, medication is used to relieve your sciatica or back pain caused by a slipped disc. Many people use painkillers, but you can also use anti-inflammatory drugs and muscle relaxants. The following medications are used mostly; they are all available without a prescription when taken at a low dose:

Non-steroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs)

Naproxen, ibuprofen, and diclofenac have an anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving effect, thus being used as herniated disc treatment. Non-steroidal meds partially stop the blood from clotting, which can result in severe bleeding (in the digestive tract) or mild bleeding (such as in bleeding gums or nosebleeds). NSAIDs are also responsible for affecting the functioning of the kidneys and causing stomach ulcers in some people. 

If you have cardiovascular disease, asthma, or any other condition, you must ask your healthcare advisor before taking NSAIDs. We evaluate the conditions of our patients in detail, as the risks of bleeding and stomach ulcers can be reduced by taking medications to protect the stomach. 

Acetaminophen (Paracetamol) 

These painkillers might be a herniated disc treatment option for people who cannot tolerate NSAIDs due to asthma or stomach issues. Higher doses of acetaminophen can take a toll on your kidneys and liver, so do not consume more than 4 grams of acetaminophen in a day. Your healthcare provider at Jersey Joint, Spine, & Regen might prescribe you some of these medications, which include:

• Opioids: Strong painkillers might only be used under medical supervision. Opioids differ in thier strength. For example, Morphine is a very strong drug, while tramadol is comparatively the weaker alternative. Some of them are also available as skin patches. The potential side effects range from dizziness and constipation to nausea and vomiting, blood pressure fluctuation, and breathing problems. Taking these drugs for a longer time leads to physical dependence and habitual use. 
• Steroids: Pain-relieving and inflammation-reducing drugs are available, such as drips, tablets, and intramuscular injections. The active ingredients spread throughout the body. However, if used for a longer period of time, these kinds of steroids can increase the risk of stomach ulcers, skin problems, sugar metabolism disorders, osteoporosis, glaucoma, and infections, for instance. 
• Muscle Relaxants: Sedatives are also used as herniated disc treatment to relax the muscles. They might result in drowsiness and fatigue and impact your ability to drive. These treatment options might also cause gastrointestinal (bowel and stomach) complications and affect the overall functioning of your liver.
• Anti-Epileptic Drugs (AEDs): Typically, these medications are used to treat epilepsy, but some of them are also used to treat neuralgia (nerve pain). These make a great option if a nerve has been permanently irritated by a slipped disc. The side effect of this potential herniated disc treatment without surgery includes fatigue and drowsiness. 
• Antidepressants: The drugs that are taken to treat depression have also been approved for treating chronic pain. Possible side effects include low blood pressure, nausea, irregular heartbeat, dry mouth, and fatigue. 

When To Opt For Surgical Treatments For A Herniated Disc

Our experts provide advanced herniated disc treatment options, preferably non-invasive, whenever possible. However, if surgery is required, we do our best to opt for the most minimally invasive option with the highest success rates on the basis of your condition. You might be recommended surgery if you have:

1. Difficulty walking or standing
2. Pain that persists for six weeks or more
3. Insufficient pain and symptom relief from non surgical treatment for herniated disc
4. Symptoms having a significantly negative effect on your mental health

Concluding Thoughts

If you are suffering from a herniated disc, it might make you reluctant to move. However, you do not have to head to bed, as too few movements tend to make your pain worse when you get up again as muscles stiffen. Make sure to stay active and follow your healthcare expert’s advice for stretching. Gentle movements blended with an OTC pain reliever help most people feel better in a few weeks. Consult our experts at Jersey Joint, Spine, & Regen and get a detailed evaluation of your condition.