What are the treatments for herniated discs?
Alternatively called ruptured discs and slipped discs, herniated discs result when the soft inner part of a spinal disc pushes through an opening in its hard outer layer. The condition causes back pain that may travel down to the leg.ActivityBed rest and avoiding activities that increase symptoms, such as bending or lifting, may relieve pain from herniated discs. Physical therapy is also necessary to maintain general fitness and reduce pain and stiffness.MedicationReduce mild and moderate pain with pain medications found in stores, such as acetaminophen, aspirin, ibuprofen and naproxen. Some pain may respond better to prescription drugs, including codeine, injected corticosteroids, muscle relaxants and neuropathic drugs.TemperatureCold packs may reduce initial inflammation and pain from herniated discs. Several days later, switch to applying mild heat for continued relief.SurgerySurgery may work when other treatments fail. A common procedure is microdiskectomy, which involves making a
