Can a herniated cervical disc heal without surgery?
Can a herniated cervical disc heal without surgery?
Herniated discs are a common cause of pain and disability. A conservative (non-surgical) treatment is preferred since pain often improves without surgery. A pain specialist can offer you several conservative treatments such as epidural injections or nerve blocks, that ease neck and arm pain, while allowing you to heal.
How long does a herniated cervical disc take to heal?
In most cases cervical disc herniations improve with time and symptomatic treatment. This can take 6-12 weeks. Improvement is usually seen within 2-3 weeks and full recovery in the ensuing 2-3 months.
Does cortisone shot help herniated disc?
Corticosteroid injections can reduce inflammation and can be effective when delivered directly into the painful area. Unfortunately, the injection does not make a herniated disc smaller; it only works on the spinal nerves by flushing away the proteins that cause swelling.
Which treatment option is best for a herniated disc?
Treatment Options Rest and Activity Modification. The first treatment is to rest and avoid activities that aggravate your symptoms. Ice and Heat Applications. Physical Therapy. Anti-Inflammatory Medications. Oral Steroid Medications. Other Medications. Epidural Steroid Injections.
How serious is a herniated cervical disc?
In some patients, a cervical herniated disc can cause spinal cord compression, where disc material pushes on the spinal cord. This is a much more serious condition and may require a more aggressive treatment plan. Spinal cord compression symptoms include: Awkward or stumbling gait. Difficulty with fine motor skills in the hands and arms.
Is there a cure for a herniated disc?
You can usually fix a herniated cervical disc with supportive treatment, although severe cases may require surgery. Perform physical therapy. A herniated disc in the neck can benefit from gentle stretching and massage designed to decrease pain and increase flexibility.
Can a herniated disc be healed without surgery?
Up to 90 percent of patients with herniated discs can be successfully treated without surgery. When we are young, our discs have a high water content, almost 80 percent in fact. As we age, the water content decreases, causing the discs to become less pliable and more susceptible to wear and tear.
