Most herniated discs can be treated without surgery. Explore non-surgical treatment options available at our Tennessee spine care centers.
A herniated disc diagnosis doesn't automatically mean you need surgery. In fact, approximately 90% of herniated disc cases improve with conservative treatment. Our Tennessee spine specialists focus on non-surgical approaches first.
A herniated disc occurs when the soft center of a spinal disc pushes through a crack in the tougher exterior casing. This can irritate nearby nerves, causing pain, numbness, or weakness in an arm or leg.
Physical therapy, epidural steroid injections, anti-inflammatory medications, and activity modification are effective for most patients. Our approach combines multiple modalities for the best results.
Surgery may be recommended if symptoms don't improve after 6-12 weeks of conservative treatment, or if you experience progressive weakness or loss of bladder/bowel control (a medical emergency).