Sharp pain or numbness in the back, neck, shoulder blade, leg, and buttocks area may be caused by an injury in the spine. One of the diagnoses for this pain is a herniated disk (also spelled “disc,” and known as a “slipped disk” or “ruptured disk”). A herniated disk occurs as the spinal disks, which have a soft gel located on the inside, begin to degenerate and either move or begin to leak through a crack in the exterior shell. The gel leaks into the spinal canal and causes a painful pressure on the many nerves surrounding the spine. The human spine is stacked with these disks that separate the sections of the spinal bone. Whether the disk moves out of place or ruptures, because they are what allow us to bend and reach, the injury can be a pain to live with. While may people opt for surgery to correct the condition, surgery may not be the only answer; Here is a more in depth look at the varying treatments for a herniated disk.
Treatment Options
Surgery
According to mayoclinic.org, “A very small number of people with herniated disks eventually need surgery. Your doctor may suggest surgery if conservative treatments fail to improve your symptoms after six weeks…” In other words, unless the patient is experiencing extreme weakness/numbness, difficulty standing, and/or a loss of bowel and bladder control, surgery is usually the last option considered.
For those who do need surgery, surgeons may choose to either remove a portion of the afflicted dick, or the entire disk. The procedure is performed through the front or back of the neck. If it is fully removed, the disk space is either fused together with hardware to keep it functioning, or used to implant an artificial disc.
Medication
Instead of surgery, a doctor may prescribe medication. The most common treatment uses non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) for long-term pain control. Depending on the severity of the pain, there are also over-the-counter medications, stronger narcotics, and muscle relaxers. These often work in combinations to relieve spasms, calm the nerves, and reduce swelling.
Instead of actual pill medication, injections can also be given. According to an article on nytimes.com, steroid medicine injections (like cortisone), may help control the pain and swelling for several months. Spinal imaging helps the doctor to guide the needle directly into the affected area surrounding the nerves, making the injection a safer process.
Therapy and Lifestyle Changes
Exercise and physical therapy have been proven to help relieve pressure on the nerves. According to Alexander Bone & Spine Institute, “A physical therapist can help by showing stretching and resting positions, along with workouts, that are designed to minimize damage and pain to the herniated disk. We also recommend: heating, icing, an ultrasound, electrical stimulation, or a back/neck brace.”
Lifestyle changes are essential, especially for those who are overweight. Changes to the way a patient diets or moves, can help prevent herniated disks from becoming a major issue. Strengthening muscles and increasing flexibility keeps the spine healthy, and may prevent further injuries as the patient learns proper weight lifting techniques. A patient can take care of their minor back pain at home by resting for a few days before gradually starting stretching and exercise lesson plans.
The primary goal of all herniated disk treatments is to relieve the pain and correct the situation. Depending on the individual patient and the severity of the injury, surgery may not be the only answer for treating a herniated disk. Surgery is avoidable if the patient decides to take action right after noticing the numbness or pain.
