Herniated Disc Treatment — Non‑Surgical Options That Relieve Pain

Living with a herniated disc can disrupt your daily life in serious ways. Pain, tingling, or weakness that spreads through your back, hips, and legs often makes it difficult to move comfortably or stay active. If you’ve been told that surgery is your only option, it’s worth knowing that there are non-surgical treatments available.

Many people have found relief through non-invasive therapies designed to support healing and ease discomfort without undergoing an operation. Below, we’ll take a closer look at some of these alternatives.

A herniated disc, also known as a slipped or ruptured disc, occurs when the soft, gel-like center of a spinal disc pushes through a tear in its tougher exterior. This pressure can irritate nearby nerves, leading to a range of symptoms that vary depending on the location and severity of the herniation.

Common symptoms include:

• Localized Back or Neck Pain: Pain in the area of the herniated disc, often exacerbated by movement.
• Radiating Pain: Sharp or burning pain that extends to the arms or legs, depending on the disc’s location.
• Numbness or Tingling: A sensation of pins and needles in the affected limbs.
• Muscle Weakness: Affected muscles may weaken, leading to stumbling or difficulty lifting objects.
• Loss of Reflexes: Reduced reflex responses in the arms or legs.

These symptoms can vary in intensity and may worsen with certain movements or positions.

Can a Herniated Disc Heal Without Surgery?

Yes, many herniated discs can improve without surgical intervention. The body has a remarkable capacity to heal, and with appropriate care, inflammation can decrease, and the disc may retract, relieving pressure on the nerves. Non-surgical treatments focus on reducing pain, improving mobility, and supporting the body’s natural healing mechanisms.

Still, it’s important to keep an eye on your symptoms. If the pain doesn’t improve, starts to get worse, or you notice signs of nerve trouble like numbness or weakness, it’s a good idea to check in with a doctor. They can help figure out what’s going on and what to do next.

Non-Surgical Treatments for Herniated Disc Pain

Exploring non-surgical treatments offers a pathway to relief without the risks associated with surgery. These therapies focus on relieving pain, reducing inflammation, and promoting healing. 

SoftWave Therapy 

SoftWave Therapy is an FDA-cleared, non-invasive treatment that uses patented broad-focused shockwave technology to stimulate the body’s natural healing processes. This treatment enhances blood flow and promotes tissue regeneration, modulating pain and inflammation associated with herniated discs. Patients with herniated discs often experience pain relief and improved mobility without the need for surgery or medications.

Read more about SoftWave Therapy for herniated discs. 

Physical Therapy

Physical therapy involves targeted exercises and stretches designed to relieve pressure on the herniated disc and strengthen the muscles supporting the spine. Therapists may use techniques like McKenzie exercises, core stabilization, and posture correction to alleviate pain and prevent future injuries. Consistent physical therapy can improve flexibility, reduce discomfort, and enhance overall spinal health.

Pain Management: NSAIDs and Muscle Relaxants

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can help reduce inflammation and alleviate pain caused by a herniated disc. In cases where muscle spasms are present, muscle relaxants may be prescribed to ease tension and discomfort. These medications are typically used for short-term relief and are combined with other treatments to manage symptoms effectively.

Ozone Therapy

Ozone therapy involves injecting a mixture of ozone and oxygen into the affected area. This treatment aims to decrease disc volume by reducing inflammation and improving oxygenation, relieving pressure on nerves and reducing pain. Although this is a minimally invasive treatment, you should consult a healthcare provider to determine if this therapy is appropriate for your condition.

Spinal Decompression Therapy

Spinal decompression therapy uses motorized traction to gently stretch the spine, changing its force and position and relieving pressure on the herniated disc and surrounding nerves. This therapy can help reposition the disc material, improve blood flow, and promote healing. Regular sessions may lead to reduced pain and improved mobility. 

Implementing certain lifestyle modifications can enhance your recovery process, the effectiveness of non-surgical treatments, and help prevent future disc issues:

• Maintain Proper Posture: To reduce strain, ensure your spine is aligned during sitting, standing, and sleeping.
• Regular Exercise: Engage in low-impact activities like walking or swimming to strengthen back and core muscles.
• Healthy Weight Management: Maintaining a healthy weight reduces pressure on spinal discs.
• Ergonomic Workspaces: Set up your work area to support good posture, using chairs and desks that promote spinal alignment.
• Avoid Prolonged Sitting: Take regular breaks to stand, stretch, and move around.

Embrace a Pain-Free Future with Non-Surgical Herniated Disc Treatments

Living with a herniated disc doesn’t mean resigning yourself to chronic pain or invasive surgery. Non-surgical treatments like SoftWave Therapy offer promising alternatives that can modulate pain and promote healing. Taking proactive steps towards these treatments can lead to significant improvements in your quality of life and a return to daily activities without pain.

The Best Shockwave Therapy for Back Pain

Are you looking for safe, reliable, and effective relief from back pain?

SoftWave therapy is FDA-cleared, patented, and nationally recognized for its leading tissue regeneration technology. Unlike other types of high-energy shockwave treatments, SoftWave is the only shockwave therapy on the market that uses true broad-focused shock waves that treat larger and deeper areas of tissue. 

Thousands of patients have experienced the benefits of SoftWave for back pain, including:

• Little to no side effects
• Short treatment time
• Quick recovery
• Long-lasting results

Find a SoftWave Therapy provider near you or learn more about SoftWave and whether or not you’re eligible for full treatment today!