Best Treatment Options for a Bulging Disc

Bulging discs are one of the most common spine conditions. In fact, many people have bulging discs that go undiagnosed unless an imaging procedure is performed for an unrelated condition, and it's possible to have a bulging disc without ever experiencing symptoms. On the other hand, this condition also has the potential to cause a great deal of pain, muscle weakness, and numbness in some people.

If you do experience significant symptoms from your bulging disc, there is hope for effective relief of symptoms. Bulging discs are highly treatable, and the majority of patients don't experience long-term symptoms.

There are a number of treatment options for a bulging disc. The most common options are non-surgical options. These options are preferable when applicable, because they help to reduce costs, recovery time, and risks. Non-surgical options include:

• Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
  
• Physical therapy 
• Epidural steroid injections
  
• Chiropractic treatment
  
• Long-term management like weight loss and smoking cessation 

In some cases, these treatment options for a bulging disc are not effective, and surgery may be considered. Surgery is used in cases where conservative options fail, as well as in a minority of cases where symptoms are very severe and progressive. Unlike conservative methods, surgical treatment of a bulging disc actually removes the disc bulge.

It was once the case that the only surgical treatment options for a bulging disc were highly invasive, requiring months of recovery and a significant hospital stay. Now, most bulging discs can be treated using minimally invasive laser spine surgery when necessary. This advance has enabled more patients than ever to receive effective, safe care for their bulging disc.

Only a doctor can tell you which treatment options would be best in your case, based on an analysis of your symptoms, the results of your diagnostic testing, and how you have responded to past treatments. To schedule a consultation about your bulging disc, please click below or call the Datta Endoscopic Back Surgery and Pain Center at (646) 374-1799.