A herniated disc can cause pain, numbness, and mobility issues, making daily life challenging. Many people assume spine surgery is the only solution, but in reality, most cases can be treated without an operation. Non-surgical herniated disc treatment often provides long-term relief for those with mild to moderate pain, while minimally invasive spine surgery may be necessary for severe cases.
Below, we’ve organized herniated disc treatment options based on the severity of pain to help you determine the best course of action.
What is a Herniated Disc?
It is estimated that up to 80% of people in the United States will experience low back pain at some point during their lifetime and every year, more than 3 million people in the U.S. get a herniated disk.
The spine is made up of vertebrae, cushioned by soft, gel-filled discs that absorb shock. A herniated disc occurs when the inner core of a disc pushes through the outer layer, irritating nearby nerves. This can lead to:
- Lower back pain (lumbar herniation)
- Neck pain (cervical herniation)
- Pain that radiates to the arms or legs
- Pain in buttocks, thighs, calf, or foot
- Numbness, tingling, or muscle weakness
Your exact symptoms will depend on where the herniated disc is located and if it is pressing on a nerve or not. It’s important to talk with a spine expert about the pain you’re experiencing to identify the cause of the pain.
Herniated Disc Treatment for Mild to Moderate Pain
If your pain is manageable but persistent, the following non-surgical herniated disc treatment options can help reduce discomfort and restore mobility.
1. Adjusting Activity Levels and Resting Strategically
- Avoid long periods of bed rest. While short rest can help, staying inactive for too long weakens muscles and slows recovery.
- Modify daily activities. Reduce strenuous movements, heavy lifting, or prolonged sitting to prevent further aggravation.
- Check your sleep position. Poor posture while sleeping can worsen symptoms. If your morning back pain is worse, consider changing your mattress or sleeping posture.
2. Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation
Physical therapists focus on restoring optimal function through personalized treatment plans that can include:
- Core-strengthening exercises to support spinal stability.
- Stretching programs to reduce pressure on the affected disc.
- Manual therapy like spinal traction or massage to relieve nerve compression.
3. Over-the-Counter Medications for Back Pain Relief
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen or naproxen reduce pain and inflammation.
- Acetaminophen (Tylenol) helps with pain management but doesn’t target inflammation.
4. Seeing a Physiatrist for Specialized Pain Management
A Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (PM&R) specialist focuses on non-surgical treatments for spinal issues. They utilize cutting-edge as well as time-tested treatments to maximize function and quality of life for their patients across all ages.
They may recommend:
- Injection-based therapies
- Advanced rehabilitation techniques
- Lifestyle modifications for long-term relief
Herniated Disc Treatment for Severe Pain
If your pain is intense, persistent, or affecting mobility, stronger interventions may be needed.
1. Prescription Medications for Severe Pain Relief
- Muscle relaxants (cyclobenzaprine) can reduce painful spasms.
- Neuropathic pain medications (gabapentin, pregabalin) can help with nerve-related pain.
2. Epidural Steroid Injections
For severe radiating pain (such as sciatica), steroid injections can provide relief by reducing inflammation around the affected nerve.
How it works: A corticosteroid is injected into the epidural space near the spine.
Effectiveness: May provide weeks or months of relief, allowing for rehabilitation.
3. Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery
If pain persists despite months of non-surgical treatment, minimally invasive spine surgery may be the best option. Minimally invasive procedures can result in less damage to tissues and a quicker recovery with less pain. Be sure to ask your surgeon if they are appropriate for you.
Common Surgical Options:
- Microdiscectomy – Removes the herniated portion of the disc, reducing nerve compression.
- Laminectomy – Removes a portion of the vertebra to create more space for nerves.
How Do You Know Which Treatment Is Right for You?
Ask yourself:
- Is my pain tolerable but persistent?
- Is my pain interfering with daily life?
- Am I experiencing weakness, numbness, or mobility loss?
If you answered yes to any of the above questions, it’s important to speak with a doctor to understand the best course of action.
Not sure if your pain is chronic or acute? Learn more in our article, chronic vs. acute pain in orthopedics.
Take the Next Step Toward Back Pain Relief
Most herniated disc patients recover without surgery. Whether you need non-surgical herniated disc treatment or are considering spine surgery, our Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation (PM&R) Specialists and Spine Specialists at Orthopaedic & Spine Center of the Rockies can help.
Request an appointment today to explore your best treatment options.