Understanding Spinal Disk Problems - Treatment

How Do I Know I Have Disk Problems?

A doctor will do a neurological exam to check for any changes in reflexes, muscle strength, or sensation. Locating the origin of the pain by abnormalities in the neurological exam may be enough to identify a herniated disk.

A spinal X-ray may eliminate other potential causes of pain, but X-rays don't show soft tissue very clearly. It may be necessary for your doctor to order magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or computed tomography (CT) scans. Another helpful medical test is myelography, a radiological technique using contrast material to see the spinal cord. This may be used to identify and determine the extent of a herniated disk. Sometimes doctors also do an electromyography (EMG), which is a nerve conduction test that may help determine the exact nerves involved.

What Are the Treatments for Spinal Disk Problems?

Treatment calls for pain relief, rest, steps to reduce inflammation, and measures to restore strength and normal activity. Severe cases of disk degeneration may permanently affect the nerves that control muscle movement. Herniated disks generally heal themselves, and surgery is rarely necessary.

If the disk is just temporarily distorted, the potential for complete recovery is excellent. If the outer membrane actually breaks or ruptures and loses some of its gelatinous center, the damage to the disk may be permanent.

Rest and Pain Relief

Doctors usually prescribe bed rest of up to 2 days and pain-killing medication such as aspirin, ibuprofen, or another nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). In some cases, corticosteroids, given either as a pill or injection around the spinal nerves, or muscle relaxants may be needed.

People with backaches should remain active, but be careful not to perform movements that cause pain or discomfort. Long-term, prolonged bed rest may actually delay healing and is no longer recommended. Your doctor may suggest a back brace or neck collar to limit movement and ease the pressure on sensitive nerves while the disk heals. In severe cases, full or partial traction may be needed.

TENS

One treatment option is transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS). A TENS device applies a small electrical current to critical points along the path of a nerve. It doesn't hurt. Nobody is quite sure why it works. Some spine surgeons and pain management specialists consider the use of TENS controversial

Acupuncture

Another nonsurgical treatment option is acupuncture. It's not clear how acupuncture works, either, but some patients get significant relief. Some spine surgeons and pain management specialists consider the use of acupuncture controversial.

Surgery for Spinal Disk Problems

When a herniated disk causes weakness or paralysis of the nerves that control muscles of the back and limbs, or if you lose control of your bladder or bowels because of the damaged disk, your doctor may recommend surgery.