Herniated Disc Treatment

Herniated disc treatment is a diverse field with many options. There are both medical and alternative treatments available. It is often difficult and confusing for the patient to know what is right for them. The one thing these patients really want is herniated disc pain relief. The only question is�"HOW DO I GET IT?"

herniated disc treatment

Traditional Medical Approach

* Bed Rest and Limited Activity. Traction might be employed to keep the patient resting in bed.

* Drugs - Pain relievers, inflammation reducers, and muscle relaxants.

* Epidural Steroidal or Corticosteroid Injections.

* Physical Therapy

* Surgery. Discectomy / Laminotomy. Used in 10% of cases.

A good doctor will always proceed with the most conservative methods first. Surgery is rarely an immediate need, except in extreme cases such as Cauda Equina Syndrome. If you feel your doctor is suggesting surgery too early in your treatment, make sure you get a second opinion.

Alternative Approach to Herniated Disc Treatment

These herniated disc treatments may be used individually, or in combination with each other. Alternative treatments for herniated disc pain may also be used with the traditional medical approach as well.

* Chiropractic Adjustments.

* Acupuncture.

* Electrotherapy

* Spinal Decompression

* Knowledge Therapy

I do believe that most providers of these arts and sciences truly mean well and would like to cure their patients. However, patients involved in alternative therapy tend to stay in treatment much longer than in the traditional medical approach. Some patients fall into a lifelong cycle of treatments to maintain their health. Some of these treatments actually inform the patient that lifelong care is preferred, to maintain �optimum health.�

IT SOUNDS LIKE A GREAT SALES APPROACH TO ME�

...Use a time of emotional and physical weakness to plant the seeds for a lifelong customer�ooops, I mean patient. Hmmm�..

Be careful of opportunistic care providers. Trust your insticts. If something seems "a little off," it might be a good idea to go elsewhere.

Point To Consider

If the herniated disc treatment does not do anything to remove the actual physical problem, than it is only going to TREAT YOUR SYMPTOMS. It will NEVER CURE YOU. How are chiropractic, acupuncture, or electrotherapy going to remove a damaged disc that is pressing on a nerve? THEY WON�T. They can only offer possible relief for the symptoms. Remember this when considering the difference between a TREATMENT and a CURE.

For more info, see the section on TREATMENTS.

Herniated Disc Treatment to Back Pain Home page 5/19/06 Revised 4/21/08

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