Best treatment method for intervertebral disc herniation

Several treatment methods for intervertebral disc bulging:

1. Bed rest: For patients with mild symptoms, bed rest can effectively relieve pain and may allow the bulging disc to retract. However, prolonged bed rest should be avoided to prevent muscle atrophy.

2. Medication: Oral or topical nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and muscle relaxants can help alleviate pain and muscle tension.

3. Physical therapy: Treatments such as heat application, physiotherapy, and massage can improve local blood circulation and relieve pain and muscle tension.

4. Traction therapy: By applying traction, the space between the lumbar vertebrae can be increased, reducing pressure on the nerve roots and relieving pain.

5. Interventional therapy: For patients who do not respond to conservative treatment or have severe symptoms, interventional treatments such as discography-guided intradiscal injection or disc decompression may be considered. These methods can reduce inflammation and relieve nerve root compression, thereby alleviating pain.

6. Surgical treatment: When conservative and interventional treatments fail to effectively control symptoms or neurological deficits worsen, surgical treatment may be considered. Common surgical procedures include minimally invasive discectomy and spinal fusion. The goal of surgery is to directly remove the disc tissue compressing the nerve and restore nerve function.

7. Lumbar muscle exercise: Strengthening the muscles of the lower back can improve lumbar stability and reduce the occurrence of disc bulging. Commonly used exercises include the three-point support, five-point support, and "flying swallow" exercises.