If you have ever experienced the pain that comes with having a herniated disc, you know the one thing you want to find right away is a treatment that will be quick, easy, and very effective. While not all herniated discs require medical intervention and treatment, it is likely you will need some type of care for your condition. If you are wondering about the best ways to treat a herniated disc, here are four common treatment options that can bring relief.

Medications

When you first suffer a herniated disc, your doctor will probably want to take a very conservative approach to your treatment. To do so, your first course of treatment may be anti-inflammatory nonsteroidal medications, such as Ibuprofen. The purpose of these medications will be to reduce any fever you have, decrease inflammation around the disc, and of course relieve your pain.

Self-Care

If your doctor determines your herniated disc is not in extremely bad shape, a course of self-care will be recommended. Along with taking medications such as Ibuprofen, a heating pad may also be used to soothe your painful muscles and joints. Finally, if you are able to do so, a limited amount of physical exercise may be recommended. Typical examples include yoga as well as water aerobics or swimming, since both of these put little or no strain on your back.

Chiropractic and Physical Therapy

Should you need more specialized help recovering from your herniated disc, you may be advised to seek out herniated disc treatment services that may include chiropractic adjustments and physical therapy. Chiropractic treatment can be used to adjust the spine and massage your back muscles, alleviating your discomfort. Physical therapy will be used to strengthen your back muscles and help you regain function, which will be key if you have had limited mobility due to your injury. Finally, you will be given certain stretches to perform, all of which will help improve your flexibility.

Ultrasound and Steroid Injections

To hopefully help you avoid surgery on your herniated disc, you may be given the option to try ultrasound therapy and steroid injections. Ultrasound will use heat and vibrations generated from sound waves to help heal the disc and reduce pain, while an epidural steroid injection of cortisone can be made into the spine to numb the area and relieve pain in your back and legs.

If you believe that you may have a herniated disc, it is important to seek out medical treatment as soon as possible. Many times, the sooner you begin treatment, the more likely you are to avoid surgery. However, even if surgery is necessary, there have been many advances in the procedure itself, and most people who undergo surgery for a herniated disc experience a full recovery. So, if you are experiencing back pain or other symptoms of a herniated disc, don't wait to seek out help. With early intervention and the right treatment plan, you can find relief and get back to your life.