Disc Damage - Surgery

Hi L.. I have not been through this, but my father-in-law had some back condition last year. He had something done called "spinal decompression" where they use a machine for a few weeks of treatment. His back is so much better now (I think he had a bulging disk, or something like that). I don't know if this is something that may help your condition, but it may be worth looking into. Surgery should be a very LAST option - even if it's minor, it's still surgery (anesthesia, healing time, risk of infection, etc). Good luck to you!

Hi L.,

I am a PT and see many patients who have herniated discs. Have you gone through physical therapy yet? Often times, that will do the trick if the herniation is minor. If not or if there is a significant amount of nerve compression, surgery may be indicated. Generally it can involve a discectomy, where they remove the involved portion of disc. It is a small incision but still a procedure under anesthesia and involves all that comes with that. It is most often an out-patient procedure where you are in and out in the same day but rare cases can involve an over night stay. I would just recommend thorough investigation into your options, including second opinions. And make sure the doc has done many of the intended procedure. Hope this helps and best of luck!

My husband injured his back on the job and a MRI showed he had a herniated disc.

The worker's comp doctor told him that he would require surgery.

The neuroligist that he spoke with said that it didn't look like it unless he injured it further (Bending, lifting, etc.)

My husband did A LOT of PT, and it just irritated it. The neurologist told him that, with time they sometimes just go back into place.

Hi L.,
Sorry to hear about your accident and injury. I don't have personal experience with a herniated disc, however I want to write a response and recommend chiropractic care before surgery. Or at least getting the opinion of a chiropractor about your back to help you weigh out your decision. I didn't understand how much chiropractic care can help until I was in an auto accident 7 years ago, and I started seeing Dr. Kristine Hicks for my whiplash. She's in San Francisco and her number is ###-###-####. I liked her because she has a gentle approach, and she offers a style called Network Chiropractic care which does not make any "pop" sounds, which was good for me in the beginning until I became more comfortable with the idea of chiropractic care.
Best wishes.
~Jen W.

I had a herniated disc also, but mine did not require surgery. I went to physical therapy and that really helped. Good Luck, I feel your pain.