A herniated disc occurs when the cartilage cushions (discs) located between the lumbar vertebrae shift towards the spinal canal. The herniated disc can extend into the spinal canal, pressing on the spinal cord or nerves going to the legs. Symptoms of a herniated disc include back and leg pain, numbness, coldness, and tingling in the legs. It can also lead to difficulty walking and loss of work capacity, and in advanced cases, to significant conditions such as urinary incontinence and severe weakness in the legs. Delaying treatment can lead to the problem worsening or becoming permanent.

What are the stages of treatment?

Surgical Treatment

In advanced cases of herniated discs, surgery is performed. Today, microsurgical and endoscopic methods (also known as minimally invasive surgery) have made herniated disc surgeries very safe and practical. Patients experience immediate pain relief after surgery and can walk the same day. The success rate of these surgeries is over 90%. The hospital stay has been reduced to one day. Following a few weeks of protection and rest, patients can easily return to their normal lives. It is important to remember that herniated discs are a treatable disease.

Non-Surgical Treatment

Not every patient with a herniated disc requires surgery. In cases that don’t necessitate surgery, medication, prevention, weight control, back exercises, and, if necessary, physical therapy programs are important treatments.