Ask a doctor - What is the therapy for lumbar disc herniation?

Q. What is the therapy for lumbar disc herniation?

Doctor Answer is medically reviewed by SecondMedic medical review team.

Answered by Secondmedic Expert

While it is possible to cure a disc herniation without surgery, the success rate depends on many factors. Although much of the medical community believes that surgery is currently the most reliable solution for curing or alleviating symptoms related to disc herniation and other spinal issues, there are alternative treatments that may provide relief.

Some non-surgical therapies which can be used to reduce pain and inflammation associated with a disc herniation include physical therapy, chiropractic treatment, acupuncture, massage therapy, cold laser therapy and electrical stimulation. These forms of treatment target areas of muscular tightness or strain as well as mobility deficits in order to help realign the spine and reduce stress on affected discs. Physical therapy can also offer corrective exercises that help improve posture while decreasing tension in soft tissues surrounding your back muscles; this can ultimately lead to improved function and reduced reliance on medication for relief.

It's important to remember that non-surgical treatments for disc herniation have varying success rates; so, if your symptoms do not improve after trying these methods then you may need surgical intervention after all. Additionally, since each person experiences different levels of discomfort/pain due to their unique anatomy it's best Fto consult an experienced physician first before beginning any type of program or making any medical decisions regarding your condition.