Disc problems in the lower back can cause great amounts of pain if left untreated. Although treating back pain was once difficult and meant lengthy amounts of hospital time and rehabilitation, modern practices make getting your lower back sorted out a much more pleasant endeavor.
Non-surgical
Some patients' lower back pain will subside without having surgery. Non-surgical treatment for herniated discs may include rest -- especially in a prone position on a bed -- physical therapy, seeing a chiropractor and pain relief medication. Muscle relaxers are also known to ease lower back pain. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS) are often prescribed to ease swelling in the discs.
Surgery
Surgery may be necessary if non-surgical treatments fail. Surgery is determined according to the severity of the pain, location of the herniated disc, and how many previous operations there have been. Discectomy is the most common form of spinal surgery. A small slit is made in the middle of the back. Muscle is ripped away and the nerve root causing the pain in the back, by being pressed upon by the herniating disc, is removed. This surgery is not that invasive and the recovery time is short.
Acupuncture
Acupuncture is an alternative medicine for a herniated disc. It's a method of pushing pins into the skin to alleviate nerve pain and increase the flow of endorphins and serotonin, which improve overall health. Acupuncture should not be relied on to relieve back pain by itself, but should be practiced with physical therapy as well to prevent future complications.
Tags: back pain, lower back, herniated disc, lower back pain, physical therapy