A herniated disc can be a painful disruption to your everyday life, whether it’s making it harder to sit, walk, or even get a good night’s rest. Many patients worryingly believe that spine issues will inevitably lead to surgery. But at Orthopedic Spine Specialist , we believe in starting with conservative, non-surgical approaches tailored to your unique condition.
If you’ve been diagnosed with a herniated disc or suspect you might have one, here’s how our spine specialists approach treatment without going under the knife.
Understanding Herniated Discs
Your spine is made up of vertebrae that are cushioned by discs, which function like shock absorbers. When the inner gel-like substance of a disc bulges or leaks out, often due to ageing, injury, or general wear and tear, it can press against nearby nerves, leading to pain, tingling, or numbness in your back, legs, or arms.
While it may sound concerning, many herniated discs can be effectively managed without the need for surgery.
Personalised Physiotherapy
The first step typically involves a tailored physiotherapy program. This includes specific exercises designed to strengthen the muscles surrounding your spine, enhance flexibility, and alleviate pressure on the affected nerve.
Each plan is customised to fit your individual needs, whether you’re an office worker in Singapore struggling with lower back pain or an active person facing nerve-related issues.
Medication Management
We might suggest some anti-inflammatory meds or muscle relaxants to help ease swelling and discomfort. Sometimes, oral corticosteroids or short-term pain relief can support your recovery, especially during those flare-ups. Our specialists keep a close eye on your progress to make sure the medication is working well and doesn’t lead to any dependency issues.
Image-Guided Injections
For cases that are a bit more stubborn, image-guided epidural steroid injections can provide relief by directly targeting the inflammation around the affected nerve. These injections can offer temporary relief and help you move forward with physiotherapy and lifestyle changes.
Lifestyle and Posture Correction
How you move throughout your day plays a huge role in managing your spinal health. We help our patients make ergonomic adjustments at work and home, improve their posture, and avoid activities that might aggravate their condition. Even small tweaks, such as how you sit or sleep, can significantly reduce disc pressure and aid in healing.
Patient Education and Monitoring
Recovering from a herniated disc takes consistency and awareness. Our specialists make sure you have the knowledge to manage your symptoms, recognise warning signs, and make informed decisions. Regular follow-ups allow us to tweak your care plan as your spine heals.
When Surgery May Be Considered
In most situations, non-surgical treatments are effective within a few weeks to months. However, if symptoms keep getting worse, lead to muscle weakness, or impact bowel or bladder control, we may need to consider surgical options.
Trust in a Thoughtful Approach to Spine Health
At the Orthopedic Spine Specialist clinic, our goal is to help you regain comfort and mobility with as little intervention as possible. Surgery isn’t always the solution, and for many, it’s not necessary at all. If you’re dealing with a herniated disc and are looking for a non-surgical route to recovery. Schedule a consultation with us and take that first step toward lasting relief.
