The spine is composed of connected bones called vertebrae, a spinal cord, nerves and disks. The disks are made of strong, flexible connective tissue on the outside and a soft jelly-like substance on the inside. The disks act like shock absorbers, providing cushioning to the spinal column. When the center of a disk breaks through the outside covering, it is called a herniated disk. The lower portion of the spine is called the lumber region, so when a herniated diskc occurs in this area, it is called a herniated lumbar disk. A herniated lumbar disk can cause pain, muscle spasms, muscle weakness and tingling or numbness in the legs and feet.
Nonsurgical Treatments
According to the North American Spine Society, 80 to 90 percent of people with a herniated lumbar disk will improve without surgery. The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons states that within three to four months of a having a herniated lumber disk, most patients are free of symptoms. The nonsurgical treatments include the prescription of anti-inflammatory medications and medications to treat pain. Rest is also prescribed, although the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons notes that people should not stay off their feet for more than one or two days. Physical therapy can also be prescribed to strengthen back and abdominal muscles.
Injections
One other nonsurgical treatment of a herniated lumbar disk is a steroid injection into the area of the herniated disk. The injection can be effective at reducing swelling and relieving pain. These injections are typically performed on an outpatient basis. The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons notes that steroid injections are the only nonsurgical treatments that are proven to reduce the symptoms of a herniated lumbar disk.
Surgery
For patients who have persistent symptoms despite nonsurgical treatments, surgery is an option. One type of surgery is called a diskectomy. The herniated disk is removed in a diskectomy. In a microdiskectomy, parts or fragments of the disk are removed. The National Library of Medicine also lists a procedure called chemonucleolysis. In this treatment, an enzyme that dissolves the jelly-like center of a disk is injected to dissolve the part that is protruding through the outer layer of the disk.
