Your spinal discs contain a soft, gel-like substance in the center, and when this leaks into the tougher tissue, it’s called a herniated disc. At Associates In Orthopedics & Sports Medicine, in Calhoun and Dalton, GA, their physical therapists understand this can be a painful condition. Luckily, they help patients master exercises that relieve pressure on the nerves, alleviating their discomfort. If you have a herniated disc, they’ll offer a treatment that doesn’t involve any uncomfortable side effects.

Physical Therapists Offer 3 Treatments for a Herniated Disc

1. Physical Therapy

Physical therapy may be used with another treatment method, or it may be successful on its own; it depends on the severity of your pain. The primary goal of a physical therapist is to facilitate conditions in the body for faster healing and pain relief. Through specific exercises, patients stretch the affected areas so the root nerves are less irritated.

2. Medication

Sometimes, a patient receives pain medication to help them manage their symptoms while a physical therapist assesses other treatment options. If their bodies heal on their own without additional treatment, then medication will reduce their discomfort during the process. If their condition does not improve after several weeks, a more involved treatment may be necessary.

3. Surgery

In some cases, surgery is needed to fix the problem completely and involves removal of the disc tissue. Although this is an effective treatment method, doctors and patients usually want to attempt more conservative strategies first, since recovery after the surgery can be a long period.  

If you’re suffering from a herniated disc, you may want to see a physical therapist first before considering other options. At Associates In Orthopedics & Sports Medicine, serving the Dalton and Calhoun, GA areas, their expert staff specializes in herniated disc treatment, helping patients enjoy lasting relief. To learn more visit them online or call (706) 226-5533.