One of the goals of herniated disc surgery is to remove fragments of the disc that are causing pressure. Many patients worry that they will suffer paralysis if the operation runs into problems, but the chances of this happening are infinitesimal. One type of herniated disc surgery is the lumbar laminotomy. The surgeon will make an incision in the back above the area where the slipped vertebrae is located. After back muscles have been moved aside, the offending vertebrae can be removed. The spine must then be stabilized. A procedure called spinal fusion may be required to achieve the required stabilization. Another type of surgery involves the cervical spine region. The area of the spinal column near the neck is the location of concern. Similar to the lumbar laminotomy, the spine must be stabilized in this procedure as well. A spinal fusion may be the method of choice, or a surgeon might achieve stabilization through a cervical plate and screws.

After a successful herniated disc surgery, the recovery and rehabilitation process can begin. Since each case will be different, the patient’s physician will recommend a plan for recovery that best applies to the individual situation. Pain medication will be required at first. Eventually, a plan for physical therapy may also be called for. The doctor will advise the patient on when they can return to normal activities and also explain to the individual what can be expected in terms of discomfort. It is also important to keep in mind that too much pain may be a sign that the patient is overdoing things and should proceed with caution. The needed recovery time for such delicate surgery is very important and the patient and doctor will want to work together to prevent further injury to the spine as the patient rehabilitates.

There are a number of alternatives to herniated disc surgery. These nonsurgical treatments can be very effective and many patients prefer to give these options a try rather than going under the knife. Simple rest along with over the counter pain medications may be all that is needed in less severe cases. There are also drugs that provide muscle relaxation or have anti inflammatory properties. These can often help a back pain sufferer to find relief. Some patients make the mistake of applying heat at the onset of severe back pain. Cold compresses should be applied as a first method of treatment. Applying ice or cold to the back several times a day can be very helpful. Later, follow up treatments of heat can make a big difference. Limiting physical activity is very important as well. This will prevent further injury to the back that could require surgical repair.

Undergoing herniated disc surgery is a serious step and, in some cases, a patient can obtain relief by to allowing the body recover without surgical intervention. However, there are also cases that leave the patient and the doctor no choice. A herniated disc surgery may be the only step that will remedy the situation. The Bible commands believers to demonstrate and attitude of kindness and forgiveness toward one another. “And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ’s sake hath forgiven you.” (Ephesians 4:32)

After recovery from herniated disc surgery, there are certain things that a patient should keep in mind to prevent further injury to the spine. Abdominal strengthening exercises can help to provide the spine with better stability, decreasing the chance for re injury. Crunches are particular good at increasing abdominal strength. Aerobic exercise such as swimming or walking can be very effective as well and most examples of this type of fitness routine will not put extra stress on the back. Lifting properly is also very important. If the object is too heavy, no one should attempt to lift it by themselves. Squatting and lifting from the knees rather than the back can greatly decrease the chance of injury. Good posture is always a positive factor for spinal health. Excessively stressful situations can cause muscles to tense up, increasing the likelihood of back injury. Those who are carrying around extra weight are also generally putting extra stress on the back and may be more susceptible to serious injury. Even with the best care, accidents, injuries, and strains can cause unforeseen health problems involving the spine. The care of a skilled medical professional can make a huge difference for anyone who struggles with painful disc problems.