How is lumbar disc prolapse treated?

Treatment

  1. Rest. One to 2 days of bed rest will usually help relieve back and leg pain.
  2. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs). Medications such as ibuprofen or naproxen can help relieve pain.
  3. Physical therapy.
  4. Epidural steroid injection.

How long does it take to recover from prolapsed disc surgery?

It will take about 4 to 6 weeks for you to reach your expected level of mobility and function (this will depend on the severity of your condition and symptoms before the operation). When you wake up after lumbar decompression surgery, your back may feel sore and you’ll probably be attached to 1 or more tubes.

When does a prolapse disc need surgery?

Your doctor might recommend surgery as an option for your herniated disc if: Your symptoms have lasted at least 6 weeks and make it hard to do your normal activities, and other treatments haven’t helped. You need to get better quickly because of your job or to get back to your other activities as soon as possible.

How serious is a prolapsed disc?

A prolapsed disc often causes severe lower back pain. The disc often presses on a nerve root which can cause pain and other symptoms in a leg. In most cases, the symptoms ease off gradually over several weeks. The usual advice is to do normal activities as much as possible.

When should you have disc surgery?

How bad does a herniated disc have to be for surgery?

Can you walk after herniated disc surgery?

You’ll be able to walk after your surgery, but you can’t drive for a while. So, arrange for someone to take you home from the hospital. Also, enlist a friend or relative to drive you wherever you’ll need to go for a few days. After surgery, it’s important to keep your spine straight.

What is the best treatment for a prolapsed disc?

Lumbar herniated disc treatments

  • Physical therapy, exercise and gentle stretching to help relieve pressure on the nerve root.
  • Ice and heat therapy for pain relief.
  • Manipulation (such as chiropractic manipulation)
  • Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen, naproxen or COX-2 inhibitors for pain relief.

Can I get disability for a herniated disc?

A severe herniated disc can be considered a disability and make you eligible for Social Security disability benefits if it meets the requirements in the Social Security Administration’s Blue Book. The Blue Book is the official listing of all of the conditions that qualify a person to receive disability benefits.

Do prolapsed discs heal?

Usually a herniated disc will heal on its own over time. Be patient, and keep following your treatment plan. If your symptoms don’t get better in a few months, you may want to talk to your doctor about surgery.

What is the treatment of L4-L5 disc prolapse?

Nonsurgical Treatments for L4-L5 Medication. Both prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) medications are used to help relieve pain from L4-L5. Physical therapy. Exercise and physical therapy can be modified to specifically target pain stemming from L4-L5 and the lower back. Chiropractic manipulation. Self-care.

What is the recommended treatment for a lumbar bulging disc?

Ice and heat therapy, pain medications, and muscle relaxants are all initial treatment options for a lumbar herniated disc.

Is surgery required for disc degeneration in the lumbar spine?

Surgical treatment is an option in cases of severe, debilitating lumbar degenerative disc disease, and is usually only recommended after at least 6 months of nonsurgical treatment. Most cases of degenerative disc disease can be managed using nonsurgical methods, and do not require surgery for effective pain relief.

What is the treatment for lumbar disc extrusion?

Medication: Some over-the-counter and prescription medications can reduce the inflammation associated with a disc extrusion. This may allow patients to take up long-term rehabilitation methods, such as physical therapy. In addition, localized cortisone injections can often provide relief from symptoms for longer periods of time.