What is worse bulging or herniated disc?
Herniated discs are considered more severe than bulging discs because they put significant pressure on nearby nerves, which can cause intense pain, inflammation and difficulties with movement.
Can a bulging or herniated disc heal?
Usually a herniated disc will heal on its own over time. Be patient, and keep following your treatment plan. If your symptoms don’t get better in a few months, you may want to talk to your doctor about surgery.
Can a herniated bulging disk heal on its own?
The average amount of time it takes for a herniated disk to heal is four to six weeks , but it can get better within a few days depending on how severe the herniation was and where it occurred. The biggest factor in healing a herniated disk is time, because most often it will resolve on its own.
When do I need surgery for a herniated disk?
Surgery for a herniated disk would be considered if there is nerve damage, if pain and other symptoms are so severe that they interfere with daily activities, or if non-surgical treatment is not effective. Surgery often can resolve herniated disk symptoms more quickly than other treatments.
What is the prognosis for a herniated disc?
Most back and leg pain will get better gradually – usually within six weeks – by taking simple measures. In fact, most people with herniated disks respond to conservative treatment within six weeks and are able to return to their normal activities. Some will continue to have back pain even after treatment.
Is a herniated disc and pinched nerve the same thing?
While these terms are widely used, technically, a pinched nerve is not the same as a herniated disc. It is in fact the result of a herniation, which causes the nerve to become pinched. It is therefore important to distinguish the two, in order for the doctor to locate the actual source of the pain and to treat it properly.