The back is made of up vertebrae and disks. The disks are essentially padding for the vertebrae and lie in between each bony vertebra. When one of the disks is pushed out of place due to a trauma or the aging process, it is called a herniation. Herniated disks, also referred to as "slipped" or "bulging," can cause pain in the back and down the legs if the disk presses on nerves that run down the legs. Treatment for herniated disks ranges from simple rest and strengthening exercises to surgery, depending on the severity of the condition.
Step 1
Rest and immobilize your back for a few days after your initial injury or display of symptoms. Your symptoms may not completely disappear, but reduced activity will allow your body to begin the healing process.
Step 2
Ice the painful area of your back. Ice packs can be used for 20 minutes up to three times daily to reduce pain and inflammation.
Step 3
Take anti-inflammatory drugs to reduce your pain and inflammation of the disk, with the permission of your doctor. Over-the-counter medications such as ibuprofen may be sufficient for minor pain. Prescription strengths may be necessary for some people, and your doctor may also recommend drugs like Neurontin or Cymbalta that are designed to relieve nerve pain.
Step 4
Obtain a referral to a local physical therapist who has experience dealing with disk problems. Physical therapy for herniated disks may include heat and electrical stimulation in the affected area and traction that gently helps the disk return to its normal position.
Step 5
Strengthen your lumbar core by doing a variety of exercises daily. A physical therapist can show you stretches that will make your back and abdominal muscles stronger and more prepared to support or prevent further abnormalities such as a herniated disk. Exercises may include pelvic tilts to work on your abs, and hip hinges that strengthen your lower and middle back.
Step 6
Opt for a series of epidural shots of corticosteroids if more-conservative treatments are not relieving your back and leg pain. Injections of medication are delivered directly into the affected area in an effort to calm the inflammation.
Step 7
Use surgery as a "last resort" for treating a herniated disk. Surgery may be performed to put the disk back into position and keep it from pressing on nearby nerves. Once surgery has been completed, nerve pain radiating down the leg usually eases or disappears completely.
Things You'll Need
- Ice pack
- Pain medication
- Heating pad
