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Herniated disc? What are your options?

Back problems are very common. People who have not experienced the Back pain directly they probably know someone who does.

Although there are several causes of back pain, a herniated disc he's the usual suspect, but a medical diagnosis is required, In addition, many people have questions about herniated disc treatment options..

Index

Conservative Treatments

Since the 90% of hernias resolve on their own, initial treatment is generally conservative and focused on relieving pain, while the body heals.

Options:

– Descanso en Casa: during the first days, the patient may wish to simply stay in bed. bed rest is ok, but it should only last a few days. It is best to rest periodically and walk or do, light and tolerable activities. Pain is a good guide; patients should find resting positions that relieve pain and light activities that do not aggravate it.

– Hielo y calor: Ice is recommended for the first couple of days, followed by heat. The ice helps reduce inflammation and the heat helps relax the surrounding muscles.. The heating pads, hot showers and electric blankets are all good options.

– Medicamentos: Many people use anti-inflammatory drugs like Motrin and Aleve. These are strong drugs that require a prescription. Muscle relaxants are also often prescribed (Valium, Flexeril), drugs that act on nerve pain (Lyrica, Ultram, Neurontin) or codeine-based pain relievers as possibilities. What's more, the doctor may try a direct steroid injection, image-guided spinal cord.

– Terapia Física: Manual manipulation by a therapist can help relax the muscles. The therapist may also recommend ultrasound, heat or ice therapy, electrical stimulation or even support braces.

Invasive Treatments

If conservative treatment fails, or if the initial symptoms quickly worsen, surgery may be recommended.

– Disquectomía: the surgeon removes only the extruded material from the disc. This surgery is successful in 85% a 90% from the patients.

– Microdisquectomía y Disquectomía endoscópicas: These new procedures are minimally invasive, require smaller incisions and specialized instruments, with remote viewing. Although it is less invasive, are appropriate only in certain situations.

– Fusión: This surgery consists of removing the entire damaged disc and fusing the involved vertebrae. Sometimes metal instrumentation is also inserted to better stabilize the joint..

– Disco Artificial: Artificial disc implantation is an alternative to spinal fusion. This is a relatively new procedure.

Nevertheless, best herniated disc treatment, is prevention. Take care to maintain good posture, lift things properly, maintain a healthy weight and exercise. Although these are old recommendations, are still good.

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