The bones in your spinal column are buffered from one another by connective tissue called discs. These discs can slip out of alignment or rupture, leading to friction, tension and pain in your back. When this occurs, you can experience shooting pain and discomfort in your back, and you may find it difficult to move of function normally. Proper treatment depends on the severity of the condition.
Physical Therapy
While physical therapy will not cure your herniated disc, it can help alleviate symptoms and make you more comfortable. Physical therapy, performed by a trained physical therapist, can help combat weakness that develops in an arm or leg, depending on the location of the herniated disc. Tingling is another common symptom, as well as a burning pain close to the herniated disc.
Other Exercises
Exercises that arch the back and spine can improve your condition. Lie on your stomach with your legs straight out behind you. Prop your upper body up on your elbows and arch the back, stretching the spine, then move up onto your hands to achieve a greater curve. Hold this position for 30 seconds and repeat up to 10 times -- this exercise will help treat herniated discs in your lower back. You can also lie flat on your back with arms crossed over your chest, knees raised and bent. This form is similar to that used for situps. Instead of performing an entire situp, curve your head, neck and shoulders up toward your knees. This helps work herniated discs in the neck. Hold this position for four seconds, relax and return to the floor. Work your way up to completing two sets of 10 repetitions.
Non-Surgical Treatment
Non-surgical approaches to treatment can improve and possibly heal a herniated disc. Start by resting your back -- avoid strenuous activity. You can also try muscle relaxants, analgesics or anti-inflammatory medications, the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons states. Apply cold compresses to the location of the herniated disc several times a day for up to 20 minutes at a time and apply low heat after experiencing muscle spasms.
Surgical Treatment
Seriously herniated discs often require surgery. This is because the disc fragment becomes lodged in your spinal canal and applies pressure to a nerve in the spine. It is also possible that an entire disc will need to be removed to take pressure off your spinal cord and nerves. Surgical procedures in the neck may require two of your vertebrae to be fused together.
