Herniated Disc Treatment: Surgical and Non-Surgical Procedures
For those suffering from a herniated disc, it is difficult to perform normal, daily tasks. The goals of treatment for a herniated disc are pain relief, a return to normal activities, and prevention of future injuries.
Various cervical symptoms may occur when the cervical nerves are affected by a herniated cervical disc or cervical stenosis, including but not limited to arm and shoulder pain.
The Spine-health Medical Director answers several reader questions that had previously been submitted about lower back pain caused by a herniated disc.
Thoracic herniated discs have a variety of conservative (non-surgical) and surgical options for treatment, including activity modification, exercise, and the VATS procedure.
Thoracic herniated discs are typically classified as being caused by one of two sources: degenerative disc disease or a sudden trauma resulting in upper back pain.
Thoracic herniated disc surgery is indicated in only rare instances when a herniated disc leads to myelopathy (spinal cord dysfunction), progressive neurologic deficits, or intolerable pain
A thoracic herniated disc can cause thoracic back pain and pain that radiates along a nerve. Symptoms of a thoracic herniated discs can usually be treated successfully with one or a combination of non-surgical treatments, such as pain medication and exercise, but severe cases of upper back pain and/or disability may need to be treated surgically.
There are many terms used to describe spinal disc problems, but it is best to focus on an understanding of the medical diagnosis. This article clarifies common disc conditions such as a herniated disc, pinched nerve, and degenerative disc disease.