How long does it take for a herniated disc to heal? Recovery timetable at a glance
A herniated disc can cause serious harm. This occurs when the jelly-like center of the disc ruptures due to a tear in the tough outer layer. This can compress the nerve, causing pain, numbness, or weakness in the back, legs, or arms.
Some common symptoms of a herniated disc are:
- Pain or burning sensation in your back, legs, or arms
- numbness or tingling in your limbs
- muscle weakness
- An “electric shock” feeling in the spine or extremities
Read more: Can you self-diagnose a herniated disc?
If you experience any of these symptoms, you must see your doctor immediately. They will diagnose your condition and develop a treatment plan that is best for you.
In most cases, a herniated disc will heal on its own with time and conservative treatments such as rest, ice, heat, and over-the-counter pain relievers. However, some people may require further treatment from a doctor or physical therapist.
If you are thinking about how long it will take for a herniated disc to heal, the answer is that it depends on several factors. These include:
1) Size and location of disc herniation
Intervertebral discs are rubber pads that sit between the vertebrae, or bones, in the spine. A herniated disc occurs when the cushion breaks down and the gel inside leaks.
Herniated discs can range in size from small to large and can be located in any area of the spine. However, herniated discs most commonly occur in the lower back and neck.
The location of your herniated disc can also affect your recovery timetable. For example, a herniated disc in the lower back may heal faster than a herniated disc in the neck.
This is because the discs in the lower back have a better blood supply than the discs in the neck. Lower back discs can heal faster and with less pain.
2) How long have you had symptoms?
Severe symptoms such as loss of motor control or sensation often indicate longer healing. If a herniated disc is causing severe pain, you may need to seek professional help immediately.
On the other hand, if your symptoms are mild and more manageable, your disc herniation may take less time to heal. Many people find that their herniated discs heal within a few weeks or months.
3) your age
People around 40 years old are more likely to develop disc herniation. This is because as we age, the discs in our spine begin to degenerate. However, this does not mean that younger people do not develop disc herniations. This can happen to anyone who suffers a sudden traumatic injury or puts excessive stress on their back.
The older you are, the longer it will take for a herniated disc to heal. This is because the discs in your spine degenerate as you age.
4) The type of treatment you received
Some ways to treat a herniated disc are:
- physical therapy
- Chiropractic care
- acupuncture
- massage therapy
- exercise
If you want to go the natural route, it’s crucial to find a physical therapist you trust and feel comfortable with. It’s also important to be consistent with your treatment.
touch Illinois Pain and Spine Institute for Chicago Herniated Disc Treatment. Our doctors will develop a personalized treatment plan for your herniated disc.
