Central herniation: Most disc herniations (i am assuming we are talking lumbar.) lateralize to one side or another. Sometimes, however, large central disc herniations occur, which can give bilateral leg symptoms and occasionally bowel/bladder symptoms. For patients with refractory symptoms or severe disability, surgery is probably the best treatment. This involves removing the protrusion. Need for fusion is high.
Answered 9/16/2015
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Symptoms?: If not causing pain or weakness, it should be observed. Laminectomy and microdiscectomy is beneficial when intractable symptoms are present.
Answered 9/13/2013
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Pushing on Things: If these herniated disks are causing pain then getting epidural injections may be helpful. However if you are doing OK and no pain, then I would leave them alone. Eventually they will heal as much as they can, but can take as much as 6-9 months to resolve. Unless you are getting increased pain or weakness, I wouldn't worry. Also start core strengthening exercises when you are feeling better.
Answered 6/30/2014
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