The spinal column is composed of vertebrae and disks, which are between the vertebrae. Spinal disks act as shock absorbers for the spine and allow flexibility in the spinal column during movement. At times, a disk may be herniated, which means that a portion of it has ruptured or is protruding. A herniated disk does not produce symptoms unless it compresses the spinal cord or spinal nerves as they exit the spinal column. This can cause pain, numbness, weakness and loss of bowel or bladder control. Thus, an early diagnosis and the proper treatment is necessary to prevent further complications of a herniated disk.
Rest
Medline Plus, of the National Institutes of Health, states that a short period of rest is the first treatment for a herniated disk, especially if the herniated disk is causing severe pain. Rest does not include bedrest, but a patient should avoid lifting heavy objects and participating in heavy physical activity until severe pain is well controlled. Rest allows the herniated disk to heal and return to its proper position in the spinal column.
Medications
MayoClinic.com states that medications can be used to treat a herniated disk. Specifically, a doctor may prescribe nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, or NSAIDs, to treat a herniated disk. These medications relieve pain and inflammation. Many NSAIDs, such as Aleve, Advil and Motrin, are available over the counter and should be taken as directed on the drug label or by the doctor. If pain is not controlled with NSAIDs, a doctor may recommend stronger narcotic painkillers.
Physical Therapy
According to Medline Plus, physical therapy is important in most patients with a herniated disk. A physical therapist will teach a patient how to complete activities of daily living, which include proper lifting, dressing, walking, and showering. Furthermore, a physical therapist will teach a patient exercises that can improve back strength, abdominal strength, and flexibility of the spinal column. A patient must attend all scheduled physical therapy sessions for best results. In addition, a patient must continue performing home exercises to prevent a future disk herniation.
