Is a Herniated Disc a Lifelong Injury?

A herniated disc is a common spinal condition that affects millions of people every year. It occurs when the soft, gel-like center of an intervertebral disc pushes through a tear in the tough outer layer. This can cause pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness in the back, neck, arms, or legs, depending on where the disc is located and which nerve is compressed.

Living with a herniated disc can be a daunting prospect, raising questions about its long-term implications. Many individuals wonder if this injury is a lifelong burden or if there is hope for a pain-free future. The answer is not so simple. In this article you will learn the factors that influence the healing time and outcome of a herniated disc, the treatment options available, and tips for preventing or managing a herniated disc.

How Long Does It Take for a Herniated Disc to Heal?

The healing time for a herniated disc depends on several factors, such as:

• The size, location, and severity of the herniation
• The age, health, and lifestyle of the patient
• The type and effectiveness of the treatment
• The compliance and participation of the patient in the recovery process

According to some studies, most people with herniated discs experience a reduction in their symptoms within about six weeks. However, some people may take longer to heal, especially if they have large or severe herniations or if they have other medical conditions that affect their healing. Some people may also experience recurrent or chronic symptoms, which may require further treatment or surgery.

What Are the Treatment Options for a Herniated Disc?

The treatment options for a herniated disc vary depending on the individual’s condition, goals, and preferences. In most cases, conservative treatments are recommended before considering back surgery. Some of the common conservative treatments include:

• Medication – Pain relievers, anti-inflammatory drugs, muscle relaxants, or steroid injections can reduce pain and inflammation.
• Physical therapy – Exercises, stretching, and strengthening can improve posture, flexibility, and muscle function. Physical therapy can also include modalities such as heat, ice, massage, or ultrasound to relieve muscle tension and spasms.
• Lifestyle modifications – Avoiding activities that worsen the symptoms, such as lifting, bending, or twisting, can prevent further injury or aggravation. Maintaining a healthy weight, quitting smoking, and practicing good ergonomics can also reduce the stress on the spine and discs.
• Alternative therapies – Some people may benefit from acupuncture, chiropractic, or yoga to relieve pain and improve wellbeing.

If conservative treatments fail to provide relief, or if the symptoms are severe or progressive, surgery may be discussed and potentially recommended. Surgery for a herniated disc involves removing part or all of the disc material to decompress the nerve and reduce symptoms. There are different types of surgery, such as open, minimally invasive, and endoscopic discectomy, and the choice will depend on how the surgeon accesses and removes the disc. 

The most common types of surgery for herniated discs are:

• Microdiscectomy – Removes the herniated portion of the disc through a small incision in the back
• Laminectomy – Removes part of the bone (lamina) that covers the spinal canal to create more space for the nerves
• Fusion – Joins two or more vertebrae together with screws, rods, plates, or cages to stabilize the spine

Surgery is usually effective in relieving pain, but it also carries some risks and complications, such as infection, bleeding, nerve damage, or recurrence of symptoms.

How Can You Prevent or Manage a Herniated Disc?

A herniated disc can be prevented or managed by taking some simple steps, such as:

• Exercising regularly – Exercise can keep the spine and discs healthy, strong, and flexible. It can also prevent or reduce obesity, which is a risk factor for disc herniation. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate physical activity most days of the week, and include a variety of aerobic, strength, and stretching exercises. Consult your doctor or physical therapist before starting any exercise program, especially if you have a herniated disc or other spinal problems.
• Maintaining good posture – Good posture keeps the spine and discs in alignment and reduces the pressure on them. Avoid slouching, hunching, or leaning forward when sitting, standing, or working. Use a chair that supports your lower back, and keep your feet flat on the floor. Adjust your computer monitor, keyboard, and mouse to a comfortable height and distance. Take frequent breaks to change your position and stretch your muscles.
• Lifting properly – Lifting heavy or awkward objects can cause or worsen a herniated disc. Use proper lifting techniques, such as bending your knees, keeping your back straight, and holding the object close to your body. Avoid twisting your body or lifting above your shoulder level. Ask for help or use a cart or dolly if the object is too heavy or bulky.
• Seeking medical attention – If you have symptoms of a herniated disc, such as pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness in your back, neck, arms, or legs, do not ignore them. See your doctor or spine specialist for a proper diagnosis and treatment. Early intervention can prevent further damage and boost your recovery.

A herniated disc is not necessarily a lifelong injury that condemns an individual to a diminished quality of life. With a comprehensive approach to treatment and a commitment to lifestyle modifications, many people successfully manage and overcome the challenges posed by this condition. By understanding the nature of herniated discs and embracing a proactive mindset, individuals can embark on a journey toward a healthier, more vibrant future.

If you have a herniated disc that is not responding to conservative treatment, a discectomy may be discussed and potentially recommended. Discectomy recovery time varies among individuals and depends on factors such as whether the patient has a large hole in the outer ring of the disc after surgery. Although discectomy is generally a very successful procedure, 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 today.

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