Living with a Slipped Disc
Nonsurgical options to treat pain and impaired movement caused by a slipped disc are usually recommended before surgery becomes a consideration. This is due to the risks and difficulties associated with traditional open spine surgery and the effectiveness of conservative treatments. As a result, many patients diagnosed with this condition are able to find lasting pain relief and return to normal activities without the need for surgery.
What is a Slipped Disc
The term slipped disc often refers to a herniated disc, a condition that occurs when the outer wall of a spinal disc ruptures, allowing inner disc material to be pushed out into the spinal column, potentially compressing surrounding nerves. Usually caused by age-related degeneration, a slipped disc can also result from a traumatic injury to the spine. Common symptoms include local pain, as well as shooting pain, numbness, tingling, and muscle weakness in the arms or legs.
Nonsurgical Treatment Options
Typically, doctors will begin treatment for a slipped disc with a course of one or more conservative, nonsurgical approaches, such as:
- General lifestyle changes to improve spinal health, such as weight loss, increased physical activity, reduced alcohol consumption, and ceasing tobacco use
- Physical therapy designed to stretch and strengthen the muscles that support the neck and back and to address movement issues that may be contributing to symptoms
- Over-the-counter nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to help reduce inflammation and relieve pain
- Hot/cold therapy to relax tense muscles and relieve inflammation
Minimally Invasive Surgery with BEST Health System
If you have been diagnosed with a slipped disc and are unable to find sufficient relief after exhausting nonsurgical treatment options, surgical intervention may be recommended. BEST Health System offers minimally invasive alternatives to traditional surgery. Contact BEST to learn more about our advanced surgical procedures.
