How are disc protrusions treated?
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.
What does mild disc protrusion mean?
Disc protrusion (also called a bulging disc) is a common back injury that affects intervertebral discs in the spinal column. Intervertebral discs separate vertebrae and provide cushioning, support, movement, and shock absorption in the spine. They’re made up of a tough outer ring enclosing a soft, jelly-like nucleus.
Does a mild disc bulge require surgery?
Most herniated discs do not require surgery. In approximately 9 out of 10 people, symptoms will resolve over days to weeks. Some people who have a herniated disc do not experience any symptoms at all. Sometimes, however, the herniated disc presses against a nerve in the spinal column.
Is mild disc protrusion serious?
Many cases of protruding discs heal naturally with rest and conservative measures. However, disc protrusions that continue to degenerate and press on the spinal cord or nerve roots cause significant pain, weakness, numbness and loss of movement that may require surgery to treat.
How long does a disc protrusion take to heal?
The average amount of time it takes for a herniated disk to heal is four to six weeks, but it can get better within a few days depending on how severe the herniation was and where it occurred. The biggest factor in healing a herniated disk is time, because most often it will resolve on its own.
Does disc protrusion go away?
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.
Is disc protrusion curable?
What is difference between disc bulge and protrusion?
The nucleus presses against the annulus, causing the disc to bulge or prolapse outward. The bulged disc material is still contained within the annulus. But in some cases, the nucleus pushes completely through the annulus and squeezes out of the disc. This is called a disc herniation or protrusion.
Why do disc bulges happen?
A bulging disc occurs when the nucleus shifts to press against the disc’s outer ring, causing the disc to flatten and protrude into the spinal canal. Age-related wear and tear on the spine is the most common cause of a bulging disc. A traumatic accident like a car crash or sports accident can also damage spinal discs.
What is the treatment for a protruding disc?
Heat therapy increases circulation and soothes sore muscles. Ice therapy helps to reduce swelling and inflammation as well as pain. Your physical therapist or physician can recommend the best rotation of these therapies for your bulging disc.
What is treatment for disc protrusion?
Treatments vary widely for disc protrusion or protrusion also labeled herniated disc. Most are treated medically with pain management. These treatments can include chiropractic, physical therapy, surgery and/or pain drugs.
What are the symptoms of a disc protrusion?
Neck pain, headaches and pain in the face, shoulders, arms and hands may be created when the disc protrusion or “Slipped Disc” presses on the neck nerves. As compression increases this may cause numbness or ‘pins & needles’ in the face, shoulder, arm or hand and may also be associated with weakness of shoulder, elbow, wrist or hand movements.
What causes protruding disc?
Long-term trauma, such as poor posture or being overweight, can also cause a bulging disc in the neck. These structures in the spine tend to weaken over time, so aging can increase the risk of a bulging disc in the neck.