Disk herniation?

Question

Hello,

I've been diagnosed with a large right paracentral disc herniation at C6-7 causing pressure on the spinal coard on the antro-lateral aspect and exiting nerve root (right side).

1. Is surgery normally required for this or is there any hope to deal with this by therapy?

2. If I do have a surgery, are the risks of side effects large?

Thank you so much!:)))

Answer 1

Surgery is invasive and recovery time very long whereas other alternatives for one level disc herniations can solve the problem without the need for surgery. So basically surgery should be a last option. For the nerve root pain and sciatica Im sure you are experiencing, there are injectable medicines that can block the nerves for 3-4 months. There is also a combination of physical therapy and steroid and temporary cortisone shots that can ease the pain. Usually a lot of herniated discs will heal themselves within 6 months especially if you drop a few pounds and try not to lift anything. Mine on the other hand, did not heal, and I have 5 herniated discs. Even so, I have not needed surgery so my guess is neither will you! Best of luck.