What can be done about nerve pain caused by a herniated disc?

Jun 24, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health
Disease description:

Feeling discomfort in the lower back while sitting likely indicates disc bulge with nerve compression pain. What should one do about disc bulge causing nerve compression pain?

Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Xu Shuai
For the issue of nerve pain caused by disc bulge compression, the following measures are recommended: 1. Conservative Treatment: - Traction Therapy: Increases the intervertebral space through traction, thereby reducing pressure on the nerves. - Manipulation and Massage: Relieves muscle spasms, reduces nerve root adhesions, and alters the relative position between the protruding nucleus pulposus and the nerve root. - Medication: Such as epidural steroid injections, which involve injecting a small amount of steroid and anesthetic to reduce inflammation around the nerve roots. 2. Surgical Treatment: For patients with severe symptoms or ineffective conservative treatment, surgical options may be considered, such as percutaneous lumbar discectomy or endoscopic lumbar discectomy. These procedures directly remove the bulging portion to relieve nerve compression. The specific treatment method should be determined by a physician based on individual patient assessment.