Forest, VA
A 24-year-old female asked:
I've had a herniated disc (l5 s1) for over a year. pt helped with sciatica but nothing has fixed the lower back stiffness/pain. what are my options?
3 doctor answers • 8 doctors weighed in
Dr. Pietro Senianswered
Orthopedic Surgery 49 years experience
Epidural inyections: There are another options to consider, one of then is to see a pain specialist for transforaminal epidural inyections, usually if the first one help them you can get two additioal ones.That is combined with a good ptprogram.However if you continue with that pain, them a consultation with a spine surgeon for possible surgery is the next option., .
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
5.6k viewsReviewed >2 years ago
Dr. Michael Bolestaanswered
Orthopedic Surgery 42 years experience
Exercise: Most herniated disks get better with respect to the leg pain, but back pain does not always go away. Many folks have less pain if they keep the back and tummy muscles strong and flexible (strethching exercise). Regular aerobic exercise (30 minutes at least 3 times a week) also helps. Consider seeing a physical therapist for a good exercise program.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
5.6k viewsReviewed >2 years ago
Dr. Qamar Khananswered
Pain Management 19 years experience
Spine Injury: This chronic pain in the distribution as you suggested is the result of an irritated nerve or facet joints or other injury typically in the lumbar spine (low back) which are caused by herniated disks, spinal stenosis or degenerative disc disease, etc requiring further evaluation by a pain/spine specialist. You may be a candidate for epidural steroid injections for relief.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
3.9k viewsReviewed >2 years ago
Last updated Mar 21, 2015
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