Can a Herniated Disc Resolve on Its Own?

An average adult’s spine has 25 spinal discs. Each disc has a soft, gel-like center that keeps your spine flexible and strong. When you have a herniated disc, this center pushes through a tear in the outer layer, irritating the nerves around it, which can be painful.

Disc herniations can range from mild to severe. In mild cases, it may heal on its own. However, this process can take several months, and during this time, you’re at risk of worsening your injury if you don’t manage it properly. 

Even if you’re only experiencing mild pain from a herniated disc, it’s vital to get professional help from an experienced neurosurgeon, such as Dr. Phillip Henkin, at the NeuroSpine Center in Tampa, Florida.

Here, he explains how a herniated disc resolves on its own and what to do to help the healing process along.

Causes and risk factors of a herniated disc

Several circumstances could cause you to develop a herniated disc, but the most likely is aging. As you age, your spinal discs dry out, becoming less flexible and more susceptible to tears.

Another common risk factor is physical injuries from accidents. If you have a job that requires heavy lifting, improper form can cause a herniation. Repeating specific movements, such as lifting, bending, or twisting, can also increase your risk.

Can a herniated disc heal on its own?

Your body can heal itself from most injuries, including a herniated disc. Over time, your body breaks down and reabsorbs the herniated material; as this happens, you experience less pain and inflammation until you’re fully healed.

The only problem with waiting for your body to heal a herniated disc on its own is that the process can take several months. Depending on the severity of your symptoms, it may be challenging to go about your day pain-free.

Factors that could slow your healing

While a herniated disc could heal independently, small herniations are more likely to mend without professional treatment than larger or more severe herniations. 

How quickly you recover also depends on your health status. If you aren’t in generally good health, it may take longer. Herniations in certain areas of your spine may also heal more quickly than others.

While your body can heal a herniated disc on its own, relying on this natural process can be risky. During the months it takes for the disc to heal, you may inadvertently worsen your injury while carrying out simple everyday tasks. 

When to get professional help

If you experience persistent pain, numbness, or weakness that doesn’t improve over a few weeks, get medical attention. These symptoms can mean you have a more severe herniation that may require professional intervention.

If you have a severe herniation, early diagnosis and treatment make all the difference. It prevents your condition from becoming debilitating and reduces your risk of developing long-term complications. 

Treatment options

For many people, conservative treatments such as painkillers, muscle relaxants, and physical therapy can be enough to manage the symptoms of a minor herniated disc.

However, in cases where these treatments aren’t effective, or if the herniation is severe, you may need surgery. Dr. Henkin typically recommends a microdiscectomy, a minimally invasive procedure that removes a portion of the herniated disc to relieve your pain.

Even with mild herniations, it’s best to get professional help from Dr. Henkin at NeuroSpine Center. He ensures you get the care you need and prevents you from developing any complications. Book a consultation online or call 813-651-3300 today.