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Has anyone ever recovered from herniated disc?
Physiotherapists have long known that spinal disc pain and referred symptoms can recover without surgery. The reabsorption phenomena was categorically proven by MRI and CT scans in 1990. This recent study published in 2017 compares lots of similar studies and concludes that 66\% of herniated discs recover spontaneously.
Can a herniated disc be permanent?
Most of the time, pain associated with a herniated disc goes away on its own over a period of weeks or months and does not cause permanent damage to the spine or nerves. A herniated disc can occur in any part of the spine, but it is most common in the lower back (the lumbar spine) and the neck (the cervical spine).
Can you live a normal life with a herniated disc?
Living with a herniated disc Your chances of getting better are good. Most people who have a herniated disc are better in about 4 weeks. Sometimes it takes longer. If you still have pain or numbness after 4 to 6 weeks, or if you feel worse, talk with your doctor.
Can you get permanent nerve damage from a herniated disc?
A severe case of a bulging disc can cut off nerve impulses, even causing permanent nerve damage. Additionally, you may experience sharp paints, incontinence, bowel movement irregularity, or even partial paralysis as the issue worsens.
When do I need surgery for a herniated disk?
Surgery for a herniated disk would be considered if there is nerve damage, if pain and other symptoms are so severe that they interfere with daily activities, or if non-surgical treatment is not effective. Surgery often can resolve herniated disk symptoms more quickly than other treatments.
How to treat a herniated disc without surgery?
Take pain relievers. Over-the-counter medications — such as ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin IB, others) or naproxen (Aleve, others) — may help reduce the pain associated with a herniated disk. Use heat or cold. Initially, cold packs can be used to relieve pain and inflammation.
How long is the recovery after L5 S1 disc surgery?
The recovery time for surgery involving the L4 and L5 vertebrae varies depending on the procedure, states Mayo Clinic. For laminectomy procedures, recovery can take as little as a few weeks. In cases requiring spinal fusion, recovery can take as long as six months.
Can a bulging disc heal on its own?
In brief: Yes! Most lumbar disc herniations tend to heal on their own. Anti-inflammatory medication and traction type of therapy often helps to relieve the pain. The herniated disc often takes up to 3 months to heal.