The spinal column is made up of 24 bones, or vertebrae, with intervertebral disk that go between each of the vertebrae. The disks are composed of cartilage that acts as a shock absorber when a person walks and increases the flexibility of the spinal column. However, 60 to 80 percent of Americans will have back problems, and most are caused by a bulging disk, according to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS). Most bulging disks are treated with conservative measures; however, some may require surgery as determined by your doctor, states the Mayo Clinic. Follow these general guidelines to cure your bulging disk.
Conservative Cures
Step 1
Decrease your level of physical activity but don't completely refrain from physical activity. Avoid activities that cause pain or discomfort in your back. Reduce reaching, bending, lifting, prolonged sitting and prolonged standing in one place. Consult your doctor about finding the right balance between physical activity and rest, if necessary.
Step 2
Perform light exercise and back stretches as tolerated to strengthen your back muscles and provide more support for your spine. Avoid overexercising and excessive stretching.
Step 3
Ask your doctor to prescribe physical therapy so you can properly advance through a rehabilitation program. Ask a physical therapist about heat, ice, traction, ultrasonography and transcutaneous electrical stimulation (TENS) treatments.
Step 4
Apply an ice pack to relieve your pain. Place the ice pack on a towel that rests on your back for 20 minutes and then remove the ice pack for 20 minutes. Repeat this cycle as often as necessary to reduce pain and swelling in your back.
Step 5
Apply a heat pack to your back 48 to 72 hours after your injury to reduce stiffness. Place a heat pack on a towel on your back for 20 minutes and then keep it off it for 20 minutes. Repeat this cycle as often as possible.
Step 6
Take over-the-counter pain medication as needed. Follow the instructions on the label and use as directed. Do not use for extended periods of time without consulting your doctor.
Surgical Cures
Step 1
Schedule an appointment with your doctor if you have an acute back injury, significant symptoms or a chronic bulging disc that is not improving with conservative treatment.
Step 2
Discuss with your doctor the surgical treatment option, the most common being a microdiskectomy. Ask about possible surgical risks, complications and expected outcome.
Step 3
Follow your doctor and physical therapist's recommended rehabilitation program. Do not rush back into physical activity. Prevent a future disc bulge by exercising, maintaining your weight and improving your posture and lifting techniques.
Tips and Warnings
- Avoid bedrest for more than two days. This will cause your back to become weak and stiff.
- Seek emergency medical treatment if you have an acute back injury or are experiencing numbness between your legs or bowel or bladder problems.
Things You'll Need
- Ice pack
- Heat pack
