Herniated Disc Recovery - Key Tips To Ensuring A Fast and Full Recovery

The first step in dealing with herniated disc recovery is to treat the situation with the utmost respect and seriousness. Your doctor will have specific instructions for you, but there are certain steps you can take at home to help your recovery go more smoothly. Recovery time varies from one person to another, so do not push yourself if your body is not ready for certain activities. Once your doctor clears you, you will be able to learn exercises to strengthen your back.

Immediately following your herniated disc, rest is your best friend. You do not have to lie flat during herniated disc recovery, but do not lie on your stomach because that will aggravate your pain. When you lie on your side, putting a pillow between your knees will take pressure off of your back. Be careful when you get out of bed so that you do not jar your back. If possible, get up slowly and in stages.

Especially important during herniated disc recovery is to avoid constipation. Lying down for long periods of time interrupts the natural action of your bowels and after a herniated disc is the wrong time to be straining your back muscles. Your doctor may prescribe a laxative or a stool softener for you to take regularly while you are on bed rest.

Take any medications that your doctor prescribes as instructed. Some of these medications may include muscle relaxers or prescription pain killers. If your pain is manageable enough to take aspirin or ibuprofen, you will fare better in the long run. Gentle massage or a heating pad can help manage pain during your recovery.

As you regain movement, be careful not to move too quickly or to move in ways that your body is not ready to move. Listen to your body, because it will tell you what it needs and when it needs different strategies. Do not lift anything heavier than a single item of clothing, even when you start feeling better. Your doctor will advise you when you can begin more stringent activities. The most important aspect of herniated disc recovery is to allow your body the time it needs to recover properly.