A herniated disk, commonly called a slipped disk, happens when one of the disks that cushion the bones of the spine slips out of place or ruptures, according to MedlinePlus. This can squeeze the spinal nerves, causing pain, numbness and weakness in the low back or the neck. This pain often starts slowly but can get so bad it's difficult to move. The pain can spread down the leg, hip and buttocks or through the shoulder and arm. Most people get better with rest and painkillers, but some need more intensive treatments.
Medications
A doctor may start treatment by giving over-the-counter painkillers like aspirin or ibuprofen, which can be used long term while a patient gradually improves, according to MedlinePlus. If those drugs do not work, a stronger narcotic painkiller may be prescribed. If there are back spasms, the doctor may give a muscle relaxant. Sometimes a steroid or neuropathic pain medication like gabapentin are used to reduce pain.
Exercise and Physical Therapy
For the first day or two, bed rest may be required, but after that, it's best to exercise carefully to speed recovery, according to Mayo Clinic. The patient will have to avoid motions that can aggravate the problem, like improper lifting, but light exercise to minimize stiffness is helpful. A physical therapist can teach a patient how to do that. Physical therapy can help speed recovery and prevent future problems by improving flexibility and strengthening the muscles that support the spine, according to MedlinePlus. A physical therapist can also help manage the condition by teaching a patient how to properly lift heavy items, walk and perform other daily activities.
Injections
When pain is severe, steroid injections directly into the injured spine can help control it, according to MedlinePlus. The injections reduce swelling around the herniated disk so that symptoms are reduced. This out-patient procedure is performed using x-rays or other scans to locate where to place the needle.
Surgery
For a small number of patients whose pain doesn't improve over time with more conservative treatments, sometimes surgery is needed, according to MedlinePlus. However, most people improve with more conservative treatments, though it can take up to a year for them to get completely back to normal. Surgery can be performed in a minimally-invasive procedure or an open procedure, depending on the patient's needs, according to Mayo Clinic. Either way, it involves cutting away some of the spinal bones and muscles to get access to the herniated disk, which is then trimmed back to relieve pressure on the pinched nerve that is causing the pain.
