Slip Disc Treatment

What is a slip disc?

A disc is said to be slipped when it bulges or tears out of its protective ring of connective tissue. It is also called bulging disc, ruptured disc or herniated disc.

Slip Disc Treatment

The pain can most often be treated by addressing the causes that led to this condition.

1. Self treatment

Simple home treatment like hot and cold applications accompanied by rest can often relieve the pain caused by minor cases of slip disc. The patient may also take over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medication and pain killers like Tylenol and Advil. Simple exercises that strengthen and stretch the back may provide a lot of relief. Physiotherapy and massage may also help, if required. 95% of the people are cured by these simple steps.

2. Change in life-style

Overweight people may also suffer from slip disc. The excessive flesh around the waist causes strain on the lumber spine which supports the entire weight of the upper body. When the discs in the vertebrae come under pressure, they tear out of their boundary and press against the nerve roots. Obesity often occurs due to lethargic lifestyle and uncontrolled eating habits. Eating vegetables and fruits, taking physical exercises regularly and positive thinking can go a long way in reducing the weight and pressure upon the lower back.

Medicines

If the do-it-yourself efforts fail to treat the slip disc, the patient may take non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and narcotic pain killers. This may be accompanied by muscle relaxants if the person is suffering from spasmodic pains in the back.

Injections

If the oral medicines do not work, patient may have to take steroid injections into the lower back area where the slipped disc has occurred. These injections generally have to be taken once in every three months. The medicines or injections should only be taken at the advice of the doctor.

Surgery

Surgery should be considered only as the last option when every other method has failed. It should be confirmed through tests that the slip disc will cause a potential damage to the nerve roots. Even in surgery, there are several options. You can consult the spine specialist which option will work best in your condition.