Can a lumbar disc herniation of 8 mm be treated conservatively?

In general, whether an 8mm lumbar disc herniation can be treated conservatively depends on the patient's symptoms. If the condition only presents as mild low back pain without neurological symptoms such as leg numbness or weakness, conservative treatment may be attempted. However, if there are significant signs of nerve compression, or if symptoms do not improve with conservative management, conservative treatment may not be suitable. The detailed analysis is as follows:

If the 8mm lumbar disc herniation causes only mild symptoms—such as dull back pain after prolonged standing or sitting that resolves with rest—and there is no radiating pain or numbness in the lower limbs, conservative treatment should be considered first. This includes bed rest, wearing a lumbar support brace to reduce spinal load, and combining traction, physical therapy, and medications to relieve pain. In most patients, symptoms can be effectively controlled through these measures.

However, if the 8mm disc herniation is accompanied by clear neurological compression symptoms—such as persistent leg numbness, weakness, difficulty walking, or abnormalities in bladder or bowel function—conservative treatment is usually less effective and may not be appropriate. In such cases, nerve compression is more severe, and delaying treatment could lead to worsening nerve damage. More aggressive interventions should be promptly considered.

In daily care, avoid bending over to lift heavy objects or prolonged bending during work. Maintain proper posture while sitting and standing. Perform appropriate back and core muscle exercises, such as "flying swallow" and "five-point support" exercises, to enhance lumbar spine stability.