A ruptured disk is generally treated conservatively at first. Initial treatments include:
If conservative treatment is not successful, the healthcare provider may recommend surgery. The following operations may be helpful for people with a ruptured disk:
Side effects of medicines include allergic reactions and stomach upset. Surgery is associated with a risk of infection, bleeding, and allergic reaction to anesthesia.
After conservative treatment of a ruptured disk, a person can usually resume activity as tolerated. Symptoms may recur every now and then, requiring repeated treatment. Ninety percent of the time, surgery relieves symptoms, and the person can slowly resume normal activities. Physical therapy can be helpful to teach appropriate body mechanics and lifting techniques.
Any new or worsening symptoms should be reported to the healthcare provider.