When should I consider herniated disc surgery?

Your doctor might recommend surgery as an option for your herniated disc if: Your symptoms have lasted at least 6 weeks and make it hard to do your normal activities, and other treatments haven’t helped. You need to get better quickly because of your job or to get back to your other activities as soon as possible.

Can you leave a herniated disc untreated?

If you leave a herniated disc untreated, you may experience intense, sharp pains, partial paralysis, or the inability to control bowel movements in relatively dire situations.

Should you do physical therapy with a herniated disc?

As your spinal muscles become stronger, the pressure on the disc should lessen, causing the pain to ease. In most cases, seeing a physical therapist relieves the pain associated with a herniated disc and trains your body on prevention of back and neck pain in the future.

Is it OK to walk with herniated disc?

Walking is an excellent choice for patients with herniated discs, as it stimulates blood flow and oxygen to the cells. It also helps keep your discs hydrated, which is important for healing. Other low-impact aerobic activities to try are swimming and cycling.

Do all herniated discs need surgery?

Most herniated discs do not require surgery. In approximately 9 out of 10 people, symptoms will resolve over days to weeks. Some people who have a herniated disc do not experience any symptoms at all. Sometimes, however, the herniated disc presses against a nerve in the spinal column.

How bad can a herniated disc get?

An untreated, severe slipped disc can lead to permanent nerve damage. In very rare cases, a slipped disc can cut off nerve impulses to the cauda equina nerves in your lower back and legs. If this occurs, you may lose bowel or bladder control. Another long-term complication is known as saddle anesthesia.

Are herniated discs serious?

A herniated disc is a common spinal disorder, and it typically responds well to conservative treatment like gentle exercise or over-the-counter pain medication. But some ruptured disc symptoms warrant a trip to your doctor to prevent serious—and potentially permanent—nerve complications.

What to avoid if you have a herniated disc?

Everyday Activities to Avoid with Herniated Disc

• Sitting too much. Sitting puts more stress on your spinal discs, especially when slouching forward in a seat.
• Doing laundry.
• Vacuuming.
• Feeding a pet.
• Strenuous exercise.
• Shoveling snow or gardening.
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