Treatment Options
Compared to other spine conditions, a bulging disc is less likely to need invasive treatment. There are three ways to relieve symptoms: reducing inflammation, reducing the amount of weight borne by the disc, and physically fixing the disc with surgery. All forms of treatment are aimed at one or more of these goals. Examples include:
- Open back surgery
- Laser spine surgery
- Epidural steroid injections
- Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
- Physical therapy
- Chiropractic treatment
In general, conservative treatments such as physical therapy will be attempted before surgery is considered as an option; while modern surgical techniques have reduced recovery times and improved patient outcomes, surgery of any sort is still to be avoided unless necessary.
What to Do After Treatment
After symptoms are relieved, patients can take several steps to reduce the chance that they will experience symptoms again in the future. This is especially important if the condition was treated non-surgically. If you are obese, weight loss can reduce the amount of weight that your spine bears, preventing flare-ups. While improved posture cannot prevent a bulging disc from occurring, it can reduce or eliminate symptoms. Similarly, exercise helps strengthen the back muscles, again placing less pressure on your spine.
If you're looking for quality bulging disc care in NYC, consider the Datta Endoscopic Back Surgery and Pain Center, headed by Dr. Datta. Dr. Datta's cutting-edge pain center uses minimally invasive techniques, translational pain research, and the doctor's extensive pain management experience to help patients return to their normal lives as soon as possible. To schedule a consultation today, please call the Datta Endoscopic Back Surgery and Pain Center at (646) 374-1799.