Do Herniated Discs Resolve on Their Own?

A herniated disc, also known as a slipped disc or a ruptured disc, is a condition that occurs when the soft inner material of a spinal disc bulges out through a tear or a crack in the outer layer. A herniated disc can cause pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness in the back, neck, arm, or leg, depending on the location and severity of the herniation. A herniated disc can be caused by various factors, such as aging, injury, overuse, or genetics.

Many people may wonder if a herniated disc can resolve on its own without any treatment. The answer is yes and no. This article will explain why some herniated discs may heal on their own, why some may not, and how to treat them effectively.

Why Some Herniated Discs May Heal on Their Own

Some herniated discs may heal on their own over time because of the natural healing process of the body. In many cases, the body can gradually reabsorb the extruded disc material and reduce the inflammation and pressure on the nerve, allowing the disc to heal naturally over time. The body can also produce scar tissue around the disc to seal the tear and prevent further leakage. However, this process may vary depending on the size, location, and type of the herniation as well as the individual’s health and lifestyle.

Patience is crucial. Herniated discs may take weeks or months to resolve naturally. During this time, individuals may experience intermittent pain and discomfort. It is essential to listen to your body and follow your healthcare provider’s guidance.

Why Some Herniated Discs Do Not Heal by Themselves

Some herniated discs may not heal on their own because the body cannot reabsorb the leaked disc material or reduce the inflammation and pressure on the nerve sufficiently. The body may also produce excessive scar tissue around the disc that causes more stiffness or instability in the spine. In some cases, the disc may also degenerate further and cause more damage or complications to the spine or nerve.

How to Treat Herniated Discs Effectively

The treatment for herniated discs depends on the severity and duration of the symptoms as well as the patient’s preference and goals. The treatment options can be divided into two categories: conservative and surgical.

Conservative treatment involves non-invasive or minimally invasive methods that aim to relieve pain, reduce inflammation, and increase function. Some of the most common conservative treatments are:

• Medication – Taking oral or injectable drugs can reduce pain, inflammation, or muscle spasms. Some of the most commonly recommended medications are anti-inflammatory drugs (such as ibuprofen or naproxen), analgesics (such as acetaminophen or tramadol), muscle relaxants (such as cyclobenzaprine or diazepam), and steroids (such as prednisone or methylprednisolone).
• Physical therapy – Doing exercises and stretches can strengthen and mobilize the muscles and joints around the spine. Physical therapy can also include other modalities, such as heat, ice, massage, ultrasound, electrical stimulation, or traction.
• Alternative therapy – This involves using natural or complementary methods that can relieve pain, reduce stress, and promote healing. Some of the common alternative therapies are acupuncture, chiropractic, yoga, meditation, and herbal remedies.

Surgical treatment involves invasive methods that aim to remove or repair the herniated disc and decompress the nerve. Surgery is usually considered as a last resort when conservative treatment fails to provide adequate relief or when there are signs of nerve damage or spinal instability. Some of the common surgical treatments are:

• Microdiscectomy – This is a minimally invasive procedure that involves making a small incision in the back and using a microscope and special instruments to remove the herniated disc material.
• Laminectomy – This is a more invasive procedure that involves making a larger incision in the back and removing part of the bone (lamina) that covers the spinal canal to create more space for the nerve.
• Fusion – This is a complex procedure that involves joining two or more vertebrae together with screws, rods, plates, or cages to stabilize the spine and prevent further movement of the disc.

Prevention and Long-Term Care

While natural healing and medical treatments are vital, prevention and long-term care play a crucial role in managing herniated discs:

• Maintain a healthy lifestyle – Regular exercise, a balanced diet, and avoiding tobacco can promote overall spine health.
• Focus on proper posture – Pay attention to your posture during daily activities, especially when sitting at a desk or using electronic devices. Good posture reduces the strain on your spine.
• Lift with care – Use proper lifting techniques to avoid straining your back. Bend at the knees, keep the load close to your body, and avoid twisting.
• Stay informed – Educate yourself about your condition and treatment options. Working with your healthcare provider as a team can lead to better outcomes.

Herniated discs do have the potential to heal naturally, thanks to the body’s remarkable regenerative abilities. However, it is essential to balance patience with vigilance. While some may find relief through self-healing and conservative treatments, others may require medical intervention to regain their quality of life.

Remember, your journey to recovery should always involve consultation with a healthcare professional who can provide personalized guidance based on your specific circumstances. Whether your herniated disc resolves on its own or requires medical assistance, the most crucial aspect is taking the right steps to ensure your long-term spinal health.

If conservative methods do not relieve the pain from a herniated disc, treatment recommendations may include a discectomy or a less invasive microdiscectomy. Although this is generally a very successful procedure, patients with a large hole in the outer ring of the disc have a significantly higher risk of reherniation following surgery. Often, the surgeon will not know the size of the hole until beginning surgery, and having a large hole in the outer ring of the disc more than doubles the risk of needing another operation.A new treatment, Barricaid, is a bone-anchored device that closes this hole, and 95 percent of Barricaid patients did not undergo a reoperation due to reherniation in a 2-year study timeframe. This treatment is done immediately following the discectomy—during the same operation—and does not require any additional incisions or time in the hospital. 

If you have any questions about the Barricaid treatment, ask your doctor or contact us at 844-705-1081.

For full benefit/risk information, please visit: https://www.barricaid.com/instructions.