What are the treatment methods for Herniated Discs?
As with all injuries, treatment should begin with conservative measures. These include reducing activity without complete bed rest and using appropriate pain and anti-inflammatory medication. Usually pain will resolve within a few days to weeks. If pain continues, other forms of treatment such as chiropractic and physical therapy may be indicated. For persistent symptoms, interventional pain management therapy may be necessary. This treatment may include an injection of cortisone (steroid), which is a strong anti-inflammatory placed onto the effected nerve. This medicine is injected into the epidural space of the spine, see “epidural steroid injections” below. The treatment is very effective in most cases. The injection may need to be repeated if only partial relief is obtained. The procedure takes just a few minutes and is performed on an outpatient basis. Although low risk, very rarely complications can occur such as a headache.
