Individuals experiencing the pain associated with a bulging disc may find relief in any number of treatments recommended by medical experts. These treatments can range from rest to surgery, depending on the severity of your symptoms, the type of pain you are having, and to what degree your symptoms interfere with your ability to function in everyday life.
Before prescribing anything to relieve bulging disc pain, your doctor will likely conduct a physical examination, do some movement tests, and order a CT scan or MRI. Once you have been diagnosed with a bulging disc, some of the treatments that may be considered include: rest, elimination of certain activities (such as lifting, which put strain on your back or neck), hot/cold therapy, and anti-inflammatory medications.
Additionally, pain may be alleviated with special bulging disc exercises, including gentle stretching routines and exercises involving the use of a stability ball (therapy ball). The exercises are aimed at strengthening your muscles and at stimulating your body to get more blood, oxygen, and nutrients flowing to your intervertebral discs, which can speed up the healing process. These treatments may result in bulging disc relief after a few weeks to a month. Sometimes, if back or neck pain persists or worsens, a doctor may try an epidural steroid injection.
However, if your bulging disc is still causing pain and discomfort after these methods have been tried, surgery may be recommended by your doctor. Some traditional surgeries are aimed at taking pressure off the nerve roots in your spinal canal by removing the bulging disc altogether. Traditional bulging disc surgery typically requires general anesthesia and a lengthy recovery period.
If your doctor has recommended surgery to treat your bulging disc, you do have an alternative at the Laser Spine Institute (LSI). We offer minimally invasive endoscopic procedures, including:
- Foraminotomy
- Laminotomy
- Percutaneous endoscopic discectomy
All of these procedures are designed to offer you bulging disc relief with fewer complications, less discomfort, and a greater chance of success than traditional surgery. Contact LSI today and we will review your bulging disc MRI or CT scan free of charge to determine if you could benefit from minimally invasive treatment.
