Reherniation, the recurrence of a herniated disc after initial treatment or surgery, can be a frustrating and painful experience. This condition often brings back the discomfort and limitations patients thought they had overcome. In this article, you will learn about the various treatment options available for reherniation, ranging from conservative approaches to more invasive surgical interventions. Understanding these options can help patients make informed decisions about their care and increase their chances of a successful recovery.
Before diving into treatment options, it is essential to understand what reherniation is and why it occurs. A disc herniation happens when the soft inner core of a spinal disc pushes through the tougher outer layer, potentially irritating nearby nerves. Reherniation refers to the recurrence of this condition in the same location, often after initial treatment or surgery.
Factors contributing to reherniation may include:
In many cases, doctors will first recommend conservative treatments for reherniation. These noninvasive approaches aim to manage pain, reduce inflammation, and promote healing without the need for surgery.
Managing pain is often the first step in treating reherniation. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), muscle relaxants, and prescription medications can help patients manage the pain and inflammation associated with reherniation. These medications are typically used in conjunction with physical therapy to provide relief.
Physical therapy is often the first line of treatment for reherniation. A tailored physical therapy program can strengthen the muscles surrounding the spine, increase flexibility, and reduce pain. Techniques such as manual therapy, therapeutic exercises, and modalities like ultrasound and electrical stimulation may be employed.
For more persistent pain, epidural steroid injections may be recommended. Epidural steroid injections can provide temporary relief from the pain and inflammation caused by reherniation. These injections deliver corticosteroids directly into the epidural space around the spinal nerves, reducing inflammation and alleviating pain.
Making changes to daily habits can significantly impact recovery and prevent future reherniations. These changes include maintaining a healthy weight, quitting smoking, practicing good posture, and avoiding activities that strain the back.
Some patients find relief through chiropractic adjustments, which can realign the spine, reduce pressure on affected nerves, and improve overall spinal function.
Some patients find relief through alternative treatments, such as acupuncture, massage therapy, yoga or gentle stretching routines, and mindfulness and relaxation techniques.
When conservative treatments fail to provide adequate relief or if neurological symptoms worsen, surgical intervention may be necessary. The choice of surgical procedure depends on various factors, including the location and severity of the reherniation, the patient’s overall health, and the surgeon’s expertise.
A revision discectomy involves removing the reherniated disc material and any other debris that may be causing nerve compression. This procedure is similar to the initial discectomy but is more complex due to scar tissue from the previous surgery.
In cases where reherniation is accompanied by spinal instability, a spinal fusion may be necessary. This procedure involves joining two or more vertebrae together to stabilize the spine and prevent further reherniation. Spinal fusion can be performed using various techniques, including bone grafts and instrumentation like screws and rods.
Artificial disc replacement is an alternative to spinal fusion for some patients. This procedure involves replacing the damaged disc with an artificial one, which maintains the spine’s natural movement and reduces the risk of adjacent segment degeneration.
In cases where spinal stenosis accompanies reherniation, a laminectomy may be performed. This procedure involves removing part of the vertebral bone (lamina) to create more space for the nerves. It is often combined with discectomy or fusion.
Stem cell therapy is a cutting-edge treatment that uses the patient’s own stem cells to promote healing and regeneration of the damaged disc. This minimally invasive procedure involves injecting stem cells into the affected area, where they can differentiate into the necessary cell types to repair the disc.
PRP therapy involves using the patient’s blood, which is processed to concentrate the platelets and growth factors. The PRP is then injected into the reherniated disc to promote healing and reduce inflammation. This treatment is still in the experimental stage but shows promise in managing reherniation.
Laser disc decompression is a minimally invasive procedure that uses laser energy to remove the reherniated disc material and relieve pressure on the spinal nerves. This technique can be an effective alternative for patients who are not candidates for traditional surgery.
Regardless of the treatment approach, proper recovery and rehabilitation are crucial for long-term success and prevention of future reherniations.
Adhering to your doctor’s instructions is essential. Make sure to take prescribed medications as directed, attend all follow-up appointments, and report any new or worsening symptoms promptly.
Patience is key when returning to normal activities. Start with light activities and gradually increase intensity. Avoid lifting heavy objects or twisting motions initially. Listen to your body, and do not push too hard too soon.
Continuing physical therapy after treatment can help you maintain strength and flexibility, learn proper body mechanics for daily activities, and incorporate exercises for long-term spine health.
Long-term success often depends on lifestyle choices. Maintain a healthy weight to reduce stress on the spine, stay physically active with low-impact exercises, and practice good posture and ergonomics at work and home.
Chronic pain and the fear of reherniation can be stressful. Managing stress through techniques such as meditation, deep breathing, and counseling can support overall wellbeing and recovery.
Treating reherniation requires a comprehensive approach that may involve a combination of conservative treatments and, in some cases, surgical intervention. The key to success lies in working closely with healthcare providers to develop a personalized treatment plan that addresses individual needs and goals. By understanding the available options and committing to proper recovery and rehabilitation, patients can increase their chances of overcoming reherniation and returning to a pain-free, active lifestyle.
While reherniation can be challenging, advances in medical treatments and rehabilitation techniques continue to improve outcomes for many patients. With the right approach and a positive mindset, it is possible to overcome this condition and prevent future recurrences.
One of the main concerns with discectomy surgery is the significant risk of reherniation—where the same disc herniates again through a hole left after surgery. In fact, patients with these large holes in their discs are more than twice as likely to reinjure themselves by having what is known as a reherniation. Fortunately, Barricaid is a bone-anchored barrier designed to close these holes, 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 or how to get access to Barricaid, ask your doctor or contact us today.
For full benefit/risk information, please visit: https://www.barricaid.com/instructions.