Treatments for a herniated disc may vary. The level of treatment your doctor recommends will depend on the severity of your herniated disc, as well as any complications from your injury.

What are nonsurgical treatments for herniated disc?

Unless it is an emergency situation, doctors usually use conservative treatment to treat the chronic pain and muscle spasms that come with a herniated disc.

They may issue pain medications that range from over-the-counter anti-inflammatories, such as ibuprofen, to prescription narcotics. Surprisingly, doctors have found that some anti-seizure medications are effective in treating certain types of nerve pain from a herniated disc. Your doctor may also prescribe muscle relaxers to control any spasms you are experiencing.

If your inflammation is severe, your doctor may inject cortisone into the area around the nerves of your spine. With less severe inflammation, your doctor may prescribe a round of steroid pills.

These treatments can be costly and can keep you from working while you wait to recover. You may be able to collect damages to recover the cost of these non-surgical treatments, as well as your lost wages.

What if medications do not work for my herniated disc?

If you have been taking the medications for several weeks and you still experience pain, your doctor may recommend physical therapy. After several weeks of physical therapy, if you are still in pain, your doctor may send you to a surgeon. Keep track of the bills you accumulate during this time, because your physical therapy costs may be recoverable damages.

Are there alternative medicine treatments for herniated disc?

There are alternative and complementary medical treatments that may help with the pain of a herniated disc. These include acupuncture, massage therapy, yoga, and chiropractic treatment.

How do I know if I need surgery for my herniated disc?

If you are experiencing loss of bladder or bowel control, significant weakness in your arms or legs, or difficulty standing or walking—and your symptoms fail to improve after six weeks of conservative treatment—your doctor may recommend surgery. In extreme cases, emergency surgery may be necessary to prevent paralysis.

What kinds of surgery are available for herniated disc?

There are four main types of back surgery used to treat and repair herniated discs:

  • A discectomy, in which the surgeon will remove the herniated part of your disc;
  • A laminectomy, where the surgeon removes the bone overlaying your spinal canal;
  • A permanent fusion, in which the surgeon connects two or more vertebrae together to stabilize your spine; or
  • The implantation of an artificial disc to replace an injured disc.

Following spinal surgery, you can expect a long recuperation and rehabilitation process, during which you will be unable to work. Depending on how well you recuperate, you may have lifetime costs, like the loss of future earning potential or permanent disability. You may be able to collect damages to cover these losses, as well as the significant medical bills from your initial trauma treatment, your surgery, and any needed follow-up care.

How can I speak with a car accident lawyer about my injury?

The car accident injury lawyers at the Montero Law Center will work with you to prove who is liable for your injuries. We will fight hard to recover all the compensation you deserve. Call us today at 954-767-6500 to schedule your free consultation.