A 40-year-old member asked:
Is it possible for a herniated bulging disk to heal on its own without surgery?
2 doctor answers • 5 doctors weighed in
Dr. Praveen Prasadanswered
Neurosurgery 45 years experience
Absolutely: In reality, over 80% of herniated discs improve without operation almost regardless of the treatment, whether medicines, physiotherapy, chiropractic, or just passage of time. The only time surgery is urgent is if there is neurologic deficit such as muscle weakness or loss of bowel or bladder control. People often have surgery if the pain is so intense they cannot take it any more.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
5.7k viewsReviewed >2 years ago
Dr. Kenneth Reichertanswered
Neurosurgery 37 years experience
Herniated disk: Most herniated discs heal on their own. Initial rest, physical therapy and anti inflammation medication all work to speed up the healing time. Surgery is reserved for discs that don't respond to the above interventions with continued uncontrollable pain or motor deficit.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
5k viewsReviewed >2 years ago
Last updated Feb 7, 2020
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