OrthoGeeks Logo
Back to Back Conditions

Herniated Discs

Comprehensive treatment guide for disc herniation causing nerve compression and neurological symptoms.

Severity

Moderate to Severe

Prevalence

Common

Recovery

6-12 weeks

Category

Degenerative

Understanding Herniated Discs

A herniated disc occurs when the soft inner core (nucleus pulposus) of an intervertebral disc pushes through a tear in the outer ring (annulus fibrosus). This can compress nearby nerve roots, causing pain, numbness, and weakness that may radiate down the leg (sciatica).

Most herniated discs occur in the lumbar spine (lower back), particularly at the L4-L5 and L5-S1 levels. While the condition can be painful and debilitating, approximately 90% of cases improve with conservative treatment within 6-12 weeks.

Key Facts:

  • • Peak incidence occurs between ages 30-50
  • • Men are affected slightly more than women
  • • Most common at L4-L5 and L5-S1 levels
  • • 90% improve with conservative treatment
Treatment Approach

Conservative Treatment (First 6-8 weeks)

Rest and activity modification
Physical therapy
Anti-inflammatory medications
Epidural steroid injections
Heat and cold therapy
Gentle stretching and strengthening

Advanced Conservative Treatment

Targeted physical therapy
Spinal manipulation (if appropriate)
Traction therapy
TENS unit for pain management
Ergonomic modifications
Weight management

Surgical Options (if conservative fails)

Microdiscectomy
Laminectomy
Spinal fusion (in severe cases)
Artificial disc replacement
Minimally invasive procedures
Rehabilitation Exercises

Important: Start exercises only after acute pain subsides. Progress gradually and stop if symptoms worsen.

Walking
Beginner

10-30 minutes

Low-impact cardiovascular exercise that promotes healing and reduces stiffness.

Instructions:

  1. Start with short 5-10 minute walks
  2. Maintain good posture while walking
  3. Gradually increase duration as tolerated
  4. Stop if pain increases significantly
Prone Press-ups
Beginner

10 reps, 3 sets

McKenzie exercise that helps centralize disc material and reduce nerve pressure.

Instructions:

  1. Lie face down on floor or bed
  2. Place hands under shoulders
  3. Press up slowly, keeping hips down
  4. Hold for 2-3 seconds, lower slowly
Nerve Gliding Exercises
Beginner

10 reps each leg

Helps reduce nerve adhesions and improve nerve mobility.

Instructions:

  1. Sit in chair with good posture
  2. Slowly straighten affected leg
  3. Flex and point foot gently
  4. Lower leg if sharp pain occurs
Partial Crunches
Intermediate

10-15 reps

Strengthens abdominal muscles to support the spine.

Instructions:

  1. Lie on back, knees bent, feet flat
  2. Cross arms over chest
  3. Lift shoulders slightly off ground
  4. Hold 2-3 seconds, lower slowly
Wall Sits
Intermediate

30-60 seconds

Strengthens leg and core muscles while maintaining proper spinal alignment.

Instructions:

  1. Stand with back against wall
  2. Slide down until thighs parallel to floor
  3. Keep back flat against wall
  4. Hold position, breathing normally
Swimming/Water Walking
Intermediate

20-30 minutes

Excellent low-impact exercise that reduces spinal loading.

Instructions:

  1. Use backstroke or gentle freestyle
  2. Avoid butterfly stroke
  3. Water walking is also beneficial
  4. Pool temperature should be warm
Emergency Warning Signs

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience any of these symptoms:

  • Progressive weakness in legs or feet
  • Loss of bladder or bowel control
  • Saddle anesthesia (numbness in groin area)
  • Severe or worsening neurological symptoms
  • Inability to bear weight or walk
  • Fever with back pain and neurological symptoms
Recommended Products

Lumbar Support

Ergonomic support for daily activities

Pain Management

TENS units and heat therapy

Exercise Tools

Equipment for safe rehabilitation

Ask Our Orthopedic Assistant

Get personalized recommendations based on your specific condition

Welcome to OrthoGeeks! I'm your orthopedic assistant specializing in braces, supports, and mobility aids. I can help you find the right product for your specific condition, explain treatment options, or provide recovery guidance for injuries. All recommendations are based on current medical research and orthopedic best practices. Feel free to ask about any joint, muscle, or bone-related concerns you may have.

less than a minute ago

OrthoGeeks is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com