Can a Herniated Disc Heal on Its Own?

Herniated discs are a common medical issue affecting 5 to 20 adults per 1000 each year. They most often occur in adults in their 30s, 40s, and 50s, and men are affected twice as often as women. [1] Certain factors can increase the risk of disc herniation, such as physical labor, smoking, frequent driving, obesity, and a sedentary lifestyle. Some individuals also have a greater risk of developing a herniated disc due to genetic factors. [2] While this condition may cause a certain degree of discomfort, there are many treatment options. In many cases, a herniated disc can heal on its own without the need for further interventions like physical therapy or surgery. [3]

What is a Herniated Disc?

A herniated disc is a condition in which one of the discs between the vertebrae in the spine becomes displaced or compressed. It can occur anywhere along the spine. These discs act as cushions or shock absorbers for the spine when movement occurs. [4] Unfortunately, they can be damaged or degenerate over time. When this happens, the nerves may be affected, leading to burning and stinging sensations across different parts of the body. You may also experience weakness, numbness, and pain that inhibit your ability to complete some tasks. [5]

Symptoms of a Herniated Disc

Symptoms will occur in a specific area depending on where the disc herniation is located. For example, if the C6 nerve in the neck is compressed, patients may feel pain from the neck all the way down to the hand, among other symptoms. [6] To diagnose this condition, your physician will likely ask you questions about your symptoms and daily activities. They may also conduct a physical exam and order imaging in the form of a CT or MRI. In some cases, your physician may order an X-ray if they suspect a fracture. [7] A disc can heal without surgery, though this varies depending on the extent of herniation.

In many cases, a disc herniation resolves on its own within a few weeks, without any treatment. Some cases take longer to resolve on their own—up to 12 weeks. [8] Ice and rest may help resolve symptoms during this time. [9]

Medical Treatments

If symptoms do not resolve within this timeframe, more advanced treatment may be required. Nonsurgical options include physical therapy, medications, or steroids.

A physical therapist may prescribe certain exercises, which could speed up recovery and resolve symptoms altogether. Your physician may prescribe medications such as gabapentin, pregabalin, duloxetine, meloxicam, or a Medrol Dosepak (a six-day course of oral steroids) when symptoms are caused by nerve damage.

In other cases, your physician may prescribe muscle relaxers, opioids, or injections to alleviate symptoms. [10] Epidural corticosteroid injections can provide short-term pain relief, though they are often not a long-term solution. How long the relief lasts depends on the patient and their specific symptoms.

You may also wish to take non prescription pain medications, at the recommendation of your doctor, to assist with managing the condition. [11]

In more severe cases, surgery may be recommended for patients who meet certain criteria. Criteria may include radicular pain that impairs quality of life, the development of significant neurological deficits, bladder and bowel impairment, trouble moving around, or failure of other treatments. However, surgery is not guaranteed to completely alleviate your symptoms. [12]

Summary

A herniated disc is a common condition that often resolves in weeks to months without any additional treatment. In some cases, therapy, medication, or surgery may be needed to completely resolve the issue. While there is no way to entirely prevent getting a herniated disc, exercise, practicing good posture, maintaining a healthy weight, and avoiding smoking may decrease your overall risk. [13]