ANSWERS: 1
  • According to MedlinePlus, a bulging disk (which is also called a herniated disk) occurs in the soft disks between the vertebrae. The disks are responsible for providing cushion to the vertebra in the back. When a disc slips or ruptures, pain can occur. This is especially true if the disk is pressing on a nerve. Symptoms of this condition may include pain that spreads from the back to the leg, pain in the neck and tingling and numbness in the legs.

    Pain Medications

    Pain medications can minimize pain until the inflammation subsides, according to the Mayo Clinic. Acetaminophen (such as Tylenol) may help reduce inflammation and pain. Pain that targets naturopathic pain, such as Cymbalta and Lyrica, appears to work for patients experiencing disks pressing on nerves. Muscle relaxants, such as Soma or Flexeril, can reduce spasms in the back caused by a bulging disk. Corticosteriod injections into the back may also be effective.

    TENS Treatments

    Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) is a treatment that delivers tiny electrical waves to nerves in the back. Although doctors aren't sure how this treatment works, it appears to provide pain relief in some patients. A doctor may recommend TENS treatments in conjunction with other treatments, according to the Mayo Clinic.

    Physical Therapy

    Physical therapy helps patients learn exercises that strengthen the back and minimize the chances of additional injury. According to the Mayo Clinic, these exercises reduce pain in some patients. Hydrotherapy, which is done in water, is also effective. Physical therapists give the patient exercises that allow them to stay strong, despite the inability to move because of pain. These exercises appear to allow patients to stay mobile, without making pain worse.

    Surgical Options

    Back surgery is a last option for a bulging disk. According to the Mayo Clinic, most doctors will ask patients to try other methods for several weeks before discussing surgery. Back surgery prevents the disk from pressing on the surrounding nerves, which causes pain. It also relieves pain associated with a bulging disk.

    Source:

    MedlinePlus: Herniated Disk

    Mayo Clinic: Herniated Disk

Copyright 2023, Wired Ivy, LLC

Answerbag | Terms of Service | Privacy Policy