Surgery often frightens patients, so doctors prescribe surgery only if a person’s motor activity or sensitivity is impaired. This occurs against the background of strong compression of the nerve fibers. Methods of non-surgical treatment are used much more often. If there are no neurological symptoms, then it is better to do with a little blood without using a scalpel.

Treatment is prescribed by a vertebrologist. At the initial consultation, you must bring with you:

• MRI results;
• x-rays of the spine (in 2 projections, with functional styling);
• conclusion of a neurologist.

Non-surgical treatment is aimed at centering the vertebrae. Equalization of the load on the intervertebral disc occurs after they return to their normal physiological position. Then the growth of the hernia stops, the intensity of pain decreases.

Best Therapies

The course of treatment includes:

• orthopedic correction;
• drug therapy;
• carrying out novocaine blockades (used in the acute period);
• physiotherapy;
• massage manipulations;
• exercise therapy sessions.

Carrying out orthopedic correction

The procedure is carried out simultaneously in 2 planes - horizontally and vertically. After restoring the correct state of all segments, the specialist eliminates pathological impulses coming from the damaged area. Additionally, redressing of the intervertebral joints is carried out.

The procedure is combined with post-isometric muscle relaxation. Against this background, the normal motor stereotype is restored.

Basic methods of orthopedic correction presented in the table.

Features of drug therapy

Depending on the specific symptoms and the general condition of the patient, drugs are prescribed in the following forms:

• tablets(the effect occurs within 35-40 minutes);
• injections(intended to relieve an attack of lumbalgia, the effect occurs 15-20 minutes after the injection);
• local funds(used for severe inflammation, when the possibility of delivering useful components through the circulatory system is excluded).

Medicine group	Drug names	Description
NSAIDs	Movalis, Nimesil. "Nimesil"	Influence the main links of the mechanism of pain syndrome development. The mechanism of action is associated with the suppression of the activity of the enzyme cyclooxygenase.
Analgesics	Narcotic - "Tramadol", "Hydrocodeine", "Codeine", "Proxifen". "Tramadol" Non-narcotic - Dicloberl, Baralgin, Indomethacin.	Designed to eliminate strong, acute pain. They can be both narcotic (recommended for 1-time use) and non-narcotic.
Muscle relaxants	Mydocalm, Baklosan, Sirdalud, Tizanil, Baclofen. "Mydocalm"	Helps to relieve muscle spasm and reduce the intensity of pain. To achieve the best effect, it is recommended to combine them with NSAIDs.
Chondroprotectors	"Khonsurid", "Mukosat", "Chondromed", "Struktum", "Chondrolon", "Chondroxide". "Chondromed"	The composition of most drugs includes chondroitin sulfate. Such drugs are prescribed to relieve pain, reduce the inflammatory response and improve functional performance.

*Click on the image in the table to enlarge.

Carrying out and effect of novocaine blockade

The analgesic effect is due to the action of novocaine. Additional medications are corticosteroids.

"Novocain" in ampoules
"Dexamethasone" in ampoules

The maximum concentration of drugs is observed in the area of ​​the location of the neoplasm. The healing effect of medicines is evenly distributed throughout the body.

Blockade is a paravertebral procedure. The injection is placed at trigger points - in those areas where there are strong painful sensations.

1. The patient lies face down.
2. The specialist palpates the painful area, identifies trigger points and calculates the number of injections.
3. The injection is placed after careful treatment of the skin with antiseptic preparations. The distance from the vertebral spinous processes is 4 cm from the side. The medicine is injected until the needle of the syringe rests against the transverse process.
4. The doctor partially removes the syringe and directs the needle under the process (depth - up to 20 mm).

The effect appears in the same minute and lasts up to 21 days. The course of treatment includes 4 procedures. A stable positive result can be achieved by combining blockades with other methods of treatment.

Physiotherapy methods

The following methods apply:

• electrotherapy (galvanization, electrical stimulation);
• laser therapy;
• ultrasound therapy.

Method of influence	Description	Number of sessions
	The impact of galvanic current activates the system of regulation of local blood circulation in tissues, promotes an increase in the concentration of acetylcholine, prostaglandins, bradykinin in tissues. As a result, blood vessels expand, local blood flow increases, and tissue nutrition returns to normal.	5-7
	An electric current of low voltage and negligible strength is used. There is an effect on the excitability of nerve receptors.	5-6
	Promotes the acceleration of reparative processes, removes the manifestations of inflammation, relieves swelling. Effects - analgesic, antispasmodic.	5-7
	It accompanies the normalization of blood circulation and dehydration of the focus of inflammation.	5-7

Massage manipulations

Massage helps to reduce the intensity of pain and accelerate rehabilitation.

The procedure is not carried out in the acute stage. If pain occurs, the session is cancelled.

Physical therapy exercises

Exercise therapy is the final stage of treatment. First, the exercises are performed under the supervision of a doctor, then independently, at home.

Take a vertical position. Perform head tilts forward, backward, while the movements should be smooth. Don't tilt your head too far. The number of repetitions is 6-8.

Remaining in an upright position, turn your head several times to the left and right side. In this case, you should look down, behind your back. The number of repetitions is 6-8.

Inhale (the starting position does not change). Exhaling, tilt your head to the left side, while pulling down the right upper limb. Do the same on the opposite side. The number of repetitions is from 4 to 6.

Keeping the starting position, with the fingers of the joined palms, reach for the shoulder blades, including the shoulder joints as much as possible. The number of repetitions is 4-6.

Inhale to raise the upper limbs. As you exhale, slowly lower yourself, spread your arms to the sides. The angle between the body and the lower limbs should be 90 degrees. The number of repetitions is 6-8.

Video - Exercise for the muscles of the shoulder girdle and joints

Get on all fours (preferably on a gymnastic rug). While inhaling, you need to round your back, pulling your chin to your chest. On the exhale bend into lumbar and look ahead. Do not tilt your head up. The number of repetitions is 6-8.

Exercise 7. "Cat"

Starting position - sitting on the heels, legs apart. As you exhale, gently, slowly stretch your arms forward, alternately stretching either the right or the left upper limb. Repeat 4-6 times.

Starting position - sitting on the heels, legs together. Without lifting the pelvis from the heels, stretch your arms up, try to stretch yourself as much as possible. Repeat 4-6 times.

Get on all fours. Lunge forward with your right foot, sit on your heels. As you exhale, stretch forward. Do the same with the opposite leg. Movements are performed smoothly and slowly. Repeat 4-6 times.

Video - Treatment of the spine and maintenance of health

Lie down on a large gym ball. Feet need to rest against the wall. Circular rotations of the arms forward and backward are performed. The amplitude in the shoulder joints should be maximum. Exercise is allowed to be performed with weights (dumbbells, water bottles). It is not necessary to bend excessively in the lumbar region. Repeat 4-6 times.

Lie down on an exercise ball. Roll until it is under your hips. Keeping the starting position, swing your legs up. Relax and stretch your upper limbs forward, and your legs back. Repeat 6-8 times.

Exercise 12 - leg swings

Lie on your stomach, place your arms bent at the elbows in front of you. Rise up, connect the shoulder blades as much as possible. You can't tilt your head. Perform the exercise 6-8 times.

Exercise 13. "Cobra"

Keeping the starting position, connect the upper limbs into the lock. Straighten your arms in elbow joints, stretch to the heels as much as possible. Repeat 6-8 times.

Roll over on your back, stretch your arms up. As you exhale, reach up behind your arms and down behind your legs. In this case, the socks should be pulled towards you. Do 4-6 repetitions.

Without changing the starting position, inhale and make a slight deflection in thoracic region. As you exhale, press your lower back to the floor. The exercise is performed as smoothly as possible, slowly. Repeat 3-5 times.

Video - Flexible and strong back in 15 minutes

Turn face down. Raise at the same time left hand and right leg. Do the same with the right arm and left leg. Repeat 6-8 times until slight fatigue appears.

Exercise "Swimmer"

Without changing the starting position, simultaneously raise the upper and lower limbs. Spreading the arms, the lower limbs must be brought together. Then spread your legs apart, hands together. Do not tilt your head. Repeat 5-7 times.

Maintaining the starting position, raise the upper and lower limbs at once. Hold this position for 2-4 seconds. The number of repetitions is 3-4.

Exercise for the back "Fish"

Turn face up. Inhaling, raise your arms through the sides up. Exhaling, relax, bounce back, relaxing the muscles one by one.

With a hernia, it is strictly forbidden to simultaneously raise both lower limbs high. Also, you can not perform sharp twisting movements in the lumbar region. The duration of 1 session is 8-10 minutes. Exercises should be performed regularly, strictly as directed.

Swimming and water treatments

When a person swims, all muscle groups are activated. Additional load for the spine is excluded. It gradually straightens, its shape becomes natural.

With a hernia, you can not use an aggressive swimming technique. Instead, it is desirable to "drift" on the waves.

• holding on to the side, rest your back against the wall of the pool. Keeping a 45-degree angle, raise straight legs. Start turning them first to the left, then to the right, 1-2 repetitions are enough;
• take any auxiliary equipment for swimming (ball, inflatable pillow). Having placed it in the region of the collarbones, lean on the chin;
• release another watercraft in front of you (distance - 30-50 cm). Try to catch it without helping yourself with your hands. If you manage to catch the craft, then you need to hold it with your knees and hold for 1-2 seconds.

Video - Hernia of the spine: treatment in water

Conclusion

The duration of non-surgical treatment depends on the patient's well-being, his age and brightness. clinical picture. If all the doctor's recommendations are followed, complete recovery occurs in 80% of cases.

It is worth listening carefully to your own feelings. Frequent headaches, discomfort in any part of the spinal column, dizziness, loss of sensation in the extremities, "lumbago" can be symptoms of a serious illness. on our website you can find out why fingers go numb. Should I immediately go to the doctor and when is numbness the norm?

A herniated disc is a disease that usually occurs suddenly. An awkward movement, lifting heavy things, hypothermia can provoke a disease in seemingly healthy person. Then acute pain does not allow normal movement, the patient cannot bend over or turn his neck. A man goes to the hospital, where he is diagnosed with an intervertebral hernia.

Many people who are faced with the disease for the first time believe that it can only be cured with surgery. However, it is not. Treatment of spinal hernia without surgery is quite successful if the patient seeks help in time. There are many therapies that are recommended to be used in combination to quickly get rid of unpleasant symptoms and speed up recovery.

Features of the course of the disease

A herniated disc is a formation that appears due to the destruction or complete rupture of the fibrous ring (outer shell) and displacement of the nucleus pulposus (gelatinous contents of the disc). If the protrusion moves under the influence of negative factors (for example, excessive load), then there is a risk of compression of the nerve roots of the spinal cord.

The main causes of damage to the discs and the occurrence of a herniated spine:

• a passive lifestyle resulting in the development of osteochondrosis, scoliosis, etc.;
• excessive load on the spinal column (professional sports, hard physical work);
• overweight;
• not proper nutrition, deficiency of minerals;
• congenital pathologies of the spine;
• bone damage due to infections.

Treatment of vertebral hernia is carried out only after identifying the causes of its occurrence.

Reference. The spinal column is subjected to a heavy load every day, so the discs between the vertebrae, which perform a shock-absorbing function, are destroyed faster than other elements. Then the fibrous membrane begins to collapse, a protrusion appears, the risk of a sequestered hernia increases (displacement of the pulpous nucleus into the spinal canal, compression of the nerve roots). In the latter case, only surgery will help.

Doctors distinguish the following stages of the disease, which are manifested by such symptoms:

• 1 stage. A protrusion up to 3 mm appears, the fibrous membrane begins to collapse. Education irritates the ligaments, provokes swelling, disrupts blood flow. Damage to the nerve roots can cause back pain, muscle spasm around the damaged area.
• 2 stage. The size of the hernia is about 15 cm. The pain becomes aching, radiating to other parts of the body. Pain increases when the protrusion compresses nerve roots.
• 3 stage. Bone growths (osteophytes) appear on the affected area, which limit mobility, compress the nerve roots.
• 4 stage. The roots of the spinal nerves and the surrounding tissues atrophy, which causes numbness, disruption of the area attached to the nerve.

Important. Seek medical attention if you experience severe pain. Numbness, limitation of leg mobility and other disorders are dangerous signs that can often be corrected only by surgery. Therefore, you should not wait until a sequestering hernia appears, you need to start treatment when the first symptoms appear.

The disease is manifested by pain, numbness of the back, legs, groin, impaired control of urination and defecation, problems with potency in men, pressure surges, etc. If damaged cervical there is pain that radiates to the shoulders, arms, vertigo (dizziness), increased pressure, numbness of the fingers upper limbs.

Principles of conservative therapy

To cure a vertebral hernia without surgery, you need to combine the following therapeutic methods:

• medicines are used to reduce the inflammatory process, swelling, pain syndrome;
• effective methods include electrophoresis (administration of drugs through the skin), magnetotherapy and other physiotherapy procedures, spinal traction, exercise therapy;
• Proper nutrition will help to reduce weight, which increases the load on the spine. And also the diet allows you to saturate the body with useful substances that are necessary for bone structures;
• manual therapy, massage, acupuncture, analgesic blockades allow you to restore the functionality of the affected area of ​​the spinal column. With their help, blood flow, trophism (nutrition) is normalized, mobility is restored.

The composition of complex therapy can include folk remedies.

As you can see, the answer to the question of whether it is possible to cure a vertebral hernia is in the affirmative. But in order to achieve success, you need to start treating the pathology when the first symptoms appear. Only in this case it will be possible to avoid surgical interventions.

Reference. Conservative treatment methods will not help to return the nucleus pulposus to its place, they are used to prevent the formation of sequesters (dead tissue of the separated portion of the gelatinous body).

Medical treatment

To eliminate the unpleasant symptoms of a herniated disc, the patient is prescribed the following drugs:

• NSAIDs will help get rid of inflammation, pain, redness, swelling. For this purpose, Indomethacin, Metindol, Diclak, Voltaren, Zerodol, Piroxicam, etc. are used.
• Muscle relaxants reduce pain, relax spasmodic muscles. Patients are prescribed Baclofen, Tizanidin, Tolperisone.
• Pain relievers are not as effective as NSAIDs. Patients are prescribed pills, injections, blockades with the use of drugs from this group, for example, Tempalgin, Baralgin, Pentalgin. With a strong pain syndrome, narcotic drugs are used, for example, Tramadol.
• Steroids help control inflammation. They are introduced into the space by the hard shell of the spinal cord and the periosteum of the vertebrae.
• Biostimulants normalize metabolic processes in the affected area. To do this, you can use an extract from aloe, placenta, gumizol.
• Psychotropic drugs(Prozac, Diazepam, Aminazine) enhance the therapeutic effect of NSAIDs, analgesics, muscle relaxants. They cannot be accepted long time as the risk of negative reactions increases.
• Chondroprotectors based on chondroitin, glucosamine accelerate the regeneration of cartilage and bone tissue, and have an anti-inflammatory effect. For this purpose, Teraflex, Structum, Don, Elbon, etc. are used.

Caution: NSAIDs should not be taken with an ulcer, as well as during pregnancy. Long-term use increases the risk adverse reactions.

For treatment intervertebral hernia use NSAIDs, analgesics, muscle relaxants, etc.

Preparations in the form of ointments and gels will help to influence the intervertebral hernia from the outside. Patients can use Kapsikam, Nikoflex, Apizatron, Ketoprofen, Diclofenac, etc. These medicines will not help cure the disease, but they will reduce inflammation, pain, swelling, and improve metabolic processes.

The decision to prescribe drugs is made by the attending physician.

Manual therapy

Non-surgical treatment involves traction of the spine. This technique will help eliminate the pressure of the hernia on the nerve bundles.

There are 2 types of spinal traction:

• dry. The procedure is carried out in a horizontal and vertical position. In the first case, manual methods are used, and in the second, the patient's weight or special weights;
• underwater. This type of stretching differs from the previous one in that the procedure is carried out in water. The patient lies down in a warm fresh or mineral water with salt additives. This traction method is more gentle, as it causes less discomfort.

Caution: during traction of the spine, there is a risk of pinching a large hernia.

Stretching is prohibited in such cases:

• sharp pain;
• fragility of bones due to lack of calcium;
• oncological, cardiovascular diseases;
• the presence of kidney stones.

After extraction, the patient should wear a corset, perform physical exercises which will help strengthen the muscles of the back.
And also with a vertebral hernia, a massage is performed, which helps relieve spasm or increase muscle tone. However, in order not to harm the patient, the specialist must know the exact localization of the protrusion.

Manual therapy with stretching, shifting manipulations will help release the nerve from pinching. This technique helps to quickly stop the pain syndrome. It will not help to cure the disease, but an experienced specialist will be able to release the nerve. To prevent re-compression, the patient must strictly follow the recommendations of the doctor.

Physiotherapy

Many patients get rid of back pain with exercise therapy. However, exercises for the cervical, thoracic and lumbar regions are different.

Gymnastics will help strengthen muscles, relieve pain in vertebral hernia

Therapeutic exercises for a hernia of the cervical region:

• Stand up straight, move your shoulders up and down, and then back and forth. The exercise can be performed while sitting. Repeat 10 times.
• Grab your left wrist with your right hand. Gently lower your head to the right side, holding your left hand, fix for 3 seconds. The patient should feel a stretch in the muscles. Perform 10 times for each side.
• Put your hands on the back of your head, tilt your head back, trying to overcome the resistance of your hands, fix. Perform 10 times.
• Rest your fingers on your forehead, tilt your head, overcoming their resistance. Fixation - 3 seconds, repeat 10 times.
• Put your hand on your temple, tilt your head in this direction, overcoming the resistance of your fingers. Fixation - 3 seconds, repeat 10 times.
• The hand is still at the temple, try to look towards the supporting hand, overcoming resistance. Fix, repeat 10 times.

An effective complex for hernia of the thoracic region:

• Sit on a chair, join your hands behind your head, bend your back to touch the back or wall with your chest. Repeat 5 times.
• Lie down, put a folded towel under your shoulder blades, put your hands behind your head, arch your back, then lie down again. Perform 5 times.
• Sit down, bend your legs at the knees, press them to your chest, wrap your arms around them, pump back and forth. Move slowly. Repeat 10 times.
• Lie on your back, bend your legs, leaning on your hands, raise your pelvis as high as possible, lock in, and then lower yourself.
• Yoga elements are also useful for hernia of the thoracic region. The patient can assume the fetal or cobra position, and lie down like this, feeling the stretch in the muscles.
• Lie on your back, bend your legs, press against your chest. Gently pull your head to your knees, lie down again. Repeat 10 times.

Caution: with a hernia of the thoracic region, it is forbidden to perform twisting exercises. Otherwise, the patient's condition will worsen.

Treatment of an intervertebral hernia of the lumbar can be supplemented with a simple but effective set of exercises:

• Put your foot on a hill (bench) in front of you, lean forward, trying to touch it with your fingers.
• Get on all fours, stretch right hand forward and left leg back, fix, feeling muscle tension, then lower the limbs. Repeat for the left arm and right leg.
• Roll over onto your back, put your right foot on your left knee, and then lift your right limb, moving it to the side as far and as low as possible. Move smoothly. Repeat for the other side.
• Get on all fours, bend your back in the lower back up, lowering your head between your hands, and then lower it as far as possible down, raising your head up.
• Roll over on your back, bend your legs, gently lift your pelvis up, fix, and then lower yourself.
• Do not change your position, slowly lift your head and shoulders off the floor, stretching your arms forward, then lie down.
• Roll over on your stomach, connect your legs, lean on your forearms, raise your head, tear your chest off the floor, then lower yourself again.
• Lie on your side, lean on your arm, put the limb on top of the belt. Raise the pelvis, fixing for a few seconds, and then lower it.

These effective exercises will help strengthen the muscles of the lumbosacral spine.

If you experience severe pain, stop exercising and consult a doctor.

Physiotherapy

Non-surgical therapy involves physiotherapy. This is optional, but highly recommended. Effective techniques will help relieve unpleasant symptoms, make the back more mobile, and speed up recovery.

Electrophoresis helps deliver medicines straight to the lesion

Physiotherapeutic procedures in the treatment of intervertebral hernia:

• electrophoresis is a procedure during which medicinal solutions (NSAIDs, analgesics) are injected into the damaged area through the skin using an electrical impulse;
• magnetotherapy is the impact on the pathological focus by a magnetic field. This technique helps to relax the muscles, accelerate the healing of damaged tissues;
• laser therapy - treatment with a laser beam. Regeneration processes are accelerated, the risk of penetration of pathogenic microbes into the body is reduced;
• ultrasound treatment accelerates metabolic processes in cartilage and bones, helps to get rid of "salt deposits";
• ultra-high frequency therapy - the effect on the affected area with dry heat. After several procedures, the damaged cartilaginous tissue of the discs is restored, their trophism improves.

It will not work to remove a hernia with the help of physiotherapy alone, however, it is quite possible to improve the patient's condition and speed up his recovery.

Folk remedies

At home, patients can use traditional medicine recipes, which, as part of complex therapy, will help eliminate pain, restore the intervertebral disc and prevent its further displacement.

Folk remedies for the treatment of vertebral hernia:

• Pour 100 g of dry cinquefoil root with 1 liter of alcohol (40%). Leave for 3 weeks to infuse in a dark place. Then dissolve 1 tablespoon of tincture in 70 ml of water. The medicine can be used as a rub. To do this, the solution is mixed with 1 bottle of Dimexide (10%), heated, and then rubbed into the affected area.
• Grind 500 g of fresh comfrey root, mix with 350 g of melted pork fat, put on a slow fire, simmer for 40 minutes, stirring. Then add 300 ml of alcohol (40%) to the mass, mix, leave. After 4 hours, the masses are again heated, poured into a glass jar, sent to the bottom shelf of the refrigerator. The sore spot is treated with a thick layer of ointment, covered with a film, insulated with a woolen cloth. After that, you need to lie down, and after 40 minutes, wash off the remnants of the product.
• Mix aloe juice, honey, alcohol in a ratio of 1:2:3. Leave the mixture overnight and then refrigerate. Gauze is impregnated with the agent, applied to the affected area, fixing with a film and cloth. Wash off after 60 minutes.

Folk remedies can be used only after the approval of the doctor.

Article publication date: 04/21/2015

Article last updated: 11/10/2018

To answer the question of whether it is possible to get rid of an intervertebral hernia without surgery, it is necessary to determine the type of hernia and the expected result from the cure.

The intervertebral disc consists of two parts - a jelly-like core and a harder outer layer. A hernia may be characterized by:

• Only a protrusion of the disc: that is, a change in its shape.
• Or damage to the shell that holds the disk core. Then the jelly-like substance (core) seeps through the gap or crack into the outer layer.

Now consider the expected results of the treatment of each type of hernia and how to achieve them.

Hernia type	Expected results from the cure	Can it be cured without surgery?
bulging disc		Can be treated at home. Surgical intervention is not required.
Hernia with rupture of the shell of the nucleus	Complete restoration of the disc and functions of the segment of the spine in which the changes occurred	At home, without surgery, it is impossible to cure. Surgical intervention allows you to restore the functions of the spine, but it is impossible to return the disc to its original state.
Disk protrusion, herniation with rupture of the shell of the nucleus	Complete relief from symptoms	At home, it is possible to achieve the goal in 90% of cases. The operation is rarely prescribed: if conservative treatment does not help or the symptoms are too serious (paralysis of the limbs, unremovable pain syndrome, dysfunction of the pelvic organs).

Now consider the possible options for treating a herniated disc without surgery, which can be used, including at home.

Attention! Almost all methods have certain contraindications. Be sure to discuss the possibility of their use with a neurologist before starting to treat a hernia.

Conservative treatments without surgery

Medicines

In order to treat a hernia of the spine without surgery, various drugs are used.

(if the table is not fully visible, scroll to the right)

Drug group	In what cases is it used, explanations
Painkillers and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs	Used for discomfort, moderate pain, inflammation
Opioid analgesics	The doctor writes a prescription for severe pain. Their use may be accompanied by side effects.
Drugs for neuralgia	Often prescribed for hernias, as they are quite effective and safer than opioid painkillers
Muscle relaxers	Prescribed for muscle spasms
cortisone injections	Drugs suppress inflammation, relieve pain. An injection is made directly into the affected area. Your doctor may prescribe a course of oral corticosteroids

In no case should you take medications on your own - contact a neurologist who will prescribe an effective treatment.

Spinal sprain

There are special tables for stretching the spine, which have a therapeutic effect by creating favorable conditions for the restoration of the disc. When you are on them, the distance between the vertebrae increases, the pressure on the discs and their effect on the nearby nerve endings decreases.

On sale there are both professional medical equipment for stretching the spine, and tables for home use.

Devices for skeletal traction of the spine

transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation

These procedures are used to eliminate the pain syndrome caused by a herniated disc.

Electric current is passed through the problem areas in safe doses. Electrical impulses, stimulating the nerves, "lubricate" pain sensations. The procedure is painless and performed without anesthesia.

Treating chronic back pain with this method is ineffective.

Ultrasound Therapy

Ultrasound treatment sessions help the patient get rid of pain and inflammation. Ultrasound speeds up blood flow and eliminates muscle spasms, increases tissue plasticity, which helps to heal damaged discs and relieve symptoms. This method is perfectly combined with other types of therapy and quickly returns to the patient the joy of movement.

According to the results achieved, ultrasound sessions are similar to manual therapy.

Alternative treatments without surgery

As for this category of methods, disputes do not subside: many talk about their inefficiency; other treated patients report amazing results. "Everything is individual"- this is important to understand if you are going to try any of the following methods of treating a spinal hernia.

Acupuncture

Acupuncture - the introduction of needles into biologically active points of the body - has helped many patients forget about pain and stiffness of movements. At the same time, there are examples when acupuncture was not effective enough.

If you decide to try this method to get rid of the symptoms of a herniated disc, find an experienced, trusted specialist.

Massage of biologically active points

This ancient healing practice is very similar to acupuncture. The difference is that biologically active points are pressured with fingers, not needles.

This method should also be treated only by an experienced specialist who is fluent in practice. The effectiveness of the method varies greatly from patient to patient.

Traditional massage

Back massage relaxes and strengthens muscles, stimulates blood supply to tissues, eliminates pain.

Talk about the fact that with the help of massage you can “push” the core into place and the like are nothing more than myths.

Before signing up for a course of procedures, be sure to tell the massage therapist that you have a vertebral hernia. This is important, because classes with you will differ from classic back massage (and the specialist must have the appropriate knowledge and practice).

Bioelectronic feedback

This non-surgical and absolutely painless method involves reading, processing and retransmission of changed information through special devices.

The bioelectronic communication method is a good alternative medicines for chronic pain, as well as a great way to keep abreast of any changes in the problem.

Yoga

There are special yoga courses for people with spinal problems.

Important: regular yoga classes can only worsen the condition, since they involve twisting the body in different directions, which increases pressure on the intervertebral discs.

A special set of exercises and a special technique for their execution (for different phases of the disease - their own exercises and techniques) speed up the process of disk recovery, help control symptoms and avoid hernia recurrence.

To learn the basics of yoga for spinal hernia, you will definitely need an experienced instructor.

Over time, having gained experience, you can practice on your own at home - yoga classes may well replace gymnastics.

Yoga is an excellent prevention of spinal hernias

What can be done at home to treat a herniated disc?

Gentle physical activity

With a herniated disc, it is recommended to reduce the load on the back and rest more: lifting weights and intense loads will only aggravate the symptoms. With the manifestation of symptoms in the form of acute sudden pain, doctors recommend to "lie down" for several days.

But lying in bed for weeks is not worth it - this will only delay recovery. After two or three days of bed rest, you need to start moving, but not very actively, avoiding sudden movements and stress on the spine.

Corsets and bandages

It will also be useful to wear a special corset or bandage (for example, cervical or vertebral, depending on the location of the damaged disc). Such a device supports the spine, reduces pressure on the nerve endings and slightly restricts movement, helping the patient to avoid stress on the back.

Cold and hot compresses

This simple, completely free and effective method herniated disc treatment is ideal for home use.

Heat enhances blood flow, thereby stimulating the enrichment of tissues with oxygen and their recovery, relieves muscle tension and has a slight analgesic effect. You can use heated towels, heating pads, bottles of warm water and other improvised means. This therapy is effective for small bulges and mild symptoms.

Cold compresses also show good efficacy in eliminating pain. It is enough to put an ice pack wrapped in a towel on the affected area of ​​​​the back for 10 minutes - and you will feel relief.

On a note: in one session, you can alternately use hot and cold compresses - this will increase the effectiveness of treatment.

exercise therapy

To avoid complications and surgery, patients with intervertebral hernia need to perform a set of exercises that will strengthen various muscle groups, stretch the spine and help eliminate pain. An individual complex will be prescribed by a neurologist.

You can perform gymnastics at home or under the supervision of a specialist. A consultation with a doctor is required: you will not only find out which exercises are shown for you, but you will also be able to make sure that they are performed correctly under the supervision of a specialist.

Summing up

It is impossible to completely get rid of a spinal hernia and “return everything to its original place”, but each patient has many ways to effectively eliminate symptoms.

Surgery comes with big risks - don't go to such extremes right away as long as you have more than 10 methods at your disposal to control symptoms and lead a normal life.

In order for the methods to really work, and not to harm yourself, be sure to consult with your neurologist.

Owner and responsible for the site and content: Afinogenov Alexey.

Intervertebral hernia is a violation of the musculoskeletal system, which is accompanied by a change in the structure of the fibrous ring and disc displacement. The disease is unpleasant and dangerous, but completely curable. In addition, a surgical operation is not always required, because with timely therapy, signs of a hernia can be eliminated by conservative methods. About what is a hernia of the spine, about treatment without surgery folk remedies and prevention and will be discussed in this article.

Before starting treatment, you need a causative factor that provoked the disease. The most common reasons include:

Prices for orthopedic corsets and posture correctors

But there are additional risk factors that increase the likelihood of developing a spinal hernia. As a rule, the disease appears under the influence of the following factors:

On a note! Men most often suffer from a herniated disc, which is related to their lifestyle (hard work, weight lifting in the gym, etc.). If you are at risk for the occurrence of pathology, then you need to start taking measures as soon as possible. In this case, even if a hernia appears, it can be cured without surgery.

Characteristic symptoms

With the appearance of an intervertebral hernia, the patient, as a rule, encounters the following symptoms:

With the appearance of a hernia in the thoracic region, the patient is faced with fewer symptoms. Often this is pain in the sternum and the development of scoliosis (curvature of the spine). So that the hernia does not go into a more severe stage, at its first manifestations, you must immediately. The specialist will conduct a diagnostic examination, after which a therapeutic course will be prescribed.

Features of treatment

When prescribing a course of treatment, the doctor should rely on several factors, for example, the severity of the disease, the patient's condition, the presence of abnormalities in the development of the skeletal system, etc.

But there is a standard treatment regimen used when the first symptoms of the disease appear:

On a note! The duration of a conservative treatment course, as a rule, can be from 2 to 3 months. If during this period positive changes are not observed, then doctors are forced to resort to surgical intervention.

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Application of non-surgical methods

To achieve maximum results without surgical operations, the treatment of intervertebral hernia requires an integrated approach. Show themselves effectively physiotherapy, massage, physiotherapy and traditional medicine. If with drug treatment everything is clear (about the application pharmaceutical preparations mentioned earlier), then other non-surgical treatments need to be considered in more detail.

Physical exercises

In almost all clinical cases, the patient is prescribed a general course of exercise therapy, but if necessary, the doctor can make adjustments. The first exercise should be the same for everyone. It is very simple, it is enough to lie on your back on the floor and, bending your knees, strain your abdominal muscles strongly. Then slowly relax them. Regular performance of this exercise will strengthen the muscular corset and, accordingly, the spine itself.

If you have any doubts about the treatment of an intervertebral hernia with the help of gymnastics, be sure to consult a specialist, that is, a physiotherapist. He will show you how to perform this or that exercise correctly, point out possible mistakes during movement, and also recommend new elements of exercise therapy. The next exercise looks like this: lying on your back, rest your palms on the floor and try to lift your pelvis up. At the top point, you need to fix your body for 5-10 seconds, and then slowly lower. Perform this exercise at least 5 times, and then gradually increase the number of repetitions to 10. If you perform it daily, you can cure a spinal hernia without surgery.

For the next exercise, you need to sit on a chair and straighten your back. Slowly turn your head to the right and left, thereby kneading the spine in the neck. It is recommended to perform this exercise 8 to 15 times. Exercise therapy will improve blood circulation in the affected areas, which will significantly speed up the healing process.

Folk remedies

AT folk medicine There are many recipes that are successfully used in the treatment of herniated discs. These are mainly oils, decoctions, compresses and other compounds with similar therapeutic properties. But despite their harmlessness, before using traditional medicine, you need to consider individual characteristics your body, so you can not do without medical supervision. Below are the most common tools.

Table. Folk methods treatment of spinal hernia.

Product name, photo	Application
	Mix in one bowl a few chopped heads of garlic and 100 ml of alcohol. Infuse the remedy for 7-10 days, after which make compresses from it. Soak a bandage in the prepared infusion and apply it to the sore spot. Cover your back with a warm blanket. The procedure is recommended to be carried out 2-3 times a week.
	Pour 1 liter of alcohol with 100 g of crushed cinquefoil root and infuse in a glass container for 20 days. Use the finished product to rub the affected area of ​​\u200b\u200bthe back twice a day. Before use, the tincture must be warmed to room temperature. It is strictly not recommended to take it inside.
	With regular ingestion of flower pollen, you can restore metabolic processes in the body, strengthen its defense mechanisms and prevent cell death. It helps in the treatment of intervertebral hernia. As a supplement to flower pollen, it is recommended to use royal jelly.
	it medicinal plant often used in folk medicine in the treatment of various diseases. With it, you can also alleviate or completely eliminate the symptoms of an intervertebral hernia. To do this, mix 300 g of pork fat, 500 g of chopped comfrey root and 300 ml of alcohol. All ingredients after mixing are cooled in the refrigerator until completely solidified. Apply the ointment daily to the affected area of ​​the body.
	Another effective remedy used in the treatment of hernia. To prepare a compress, you need to mix 1 g of mummy, 100 g of honey and 100 g of fir oil. Apply the prepared substance to the inflamed area of ​​\u200b\u200bthe body and wrap yourself up for 30 minutes. After you remove the compress, treat the skin with alcohol and apply a warming ointment.
	Grind 20 g of fresh birch leaves and fill them with 200 ml of oil. The product must be infused in a glass container for 2 weeks. Rub the finished ointment on the affected area several times a day.

Important! When treating a hernia with folk remedies or with the help of medicines, one important rule must be observed - do not engage in physical activity, or at least reduce it as much as possible. Do not lift heavy weights, try not to be in one position for a long time and have a good rest.

During the massage, the muscle tissue is well kneaded, so that the body relaxes. As a rule, with a hernia, doctors prescribe a massage for the following purposes:

• preventing the development of serious complications;
• increasing the elasticity of the muscle corset;
• improving blood circulation in the affected area;
• relaxation of muscle tissue.

Upon completion of the course of therapeutic massage, the muscles fully regain their mobility and strength. But such an effect can only be achieved if the massage is performed by an experienced specialist. Most often, they resort to if a hernia in a patient arose for the first time, since when it reappears like this therapeutic effect unfortunately almost impossible to achieve. Massage should not be performed on patients suffering from severe pain in the spine. This type of therapy can be started only after the removal of the pain syndrome.

Acupuncture (acupuncture)

Apply acupuncture as effective method treatment began the inhabitants of ancient China. They were able to identify the connection between the internal organs and systems of a person with certain points on the body, which can be influenced with needles. With intervertebral hernia, acupuncture is also practiced, which improves the patient's condition.

- the condition is painful and dangerous for the patient. Back pain is just an external symptom, signaling numerous problems in one or another part of the spine. Despite the complexity of the diagnosis, surgical intervention is not always required. In some cases, it is possible to treat an intervertebral hernia without surgery. But it is up to the physician to determine this, not the patient himself.

Let's figure it out without surgeons!

A hernia does not form instantly. It takes time for it to “grow up” and take a dangerous position, infringing on the nerves and blood vessels. In the earliest stages of hernia formation, surgery is never considered as the main method.

When surgery is not needed

Of course, home treatment according to reference books and advice from experienced people is strictly contraindicated, but if you follow the doctor's recommendations and take the necessary medicines, you can achieve good results in getting rid of the disease. Non-surgical treatment of spinal hernia is possible in several cases:

• The stage of development of the disease, determined by physicians, allows you to "reset" the hernia by a conservative method;
• The size of the hernia does not exceed 4.5 mm;
• The direction and size of the hernia do not threaten the vital areas of regulation: large blood vessels, spinal cord and nerves;
• A single hernia does not progress or shows positive dynamics with conservative treatment;
• The operation is associated with an unjustified risk to the life of the patient, for example, in case of intolerance to anesthesia or cardiac pathologies.

When planning a pregnancy, it is recommended to first get rid of it, since the increasing load can provoke the development of pathology, and the operation is highly undesirable. Another limitation may be significant excess weight of the patient.

Can a hernia be cured?

An uncomplicated hernia at an early stage is always easy to treat, but on condition that this therapy is prescribed individually based on the results of the examination.

With multiple lesions of the spine requiring inpatient training, a number of complex operations and long-term rehabilitation, surgical intervention is carefully developed by a whole group of doctors and implemented in stages. Self-medication is life-threatening!

Treatment of a vertebral hernia is a voluntary matter. The patient who refused the help of doctors should understand that without competent therapy the process will progress: pain will increase, new symptoms will be added, up to paresis and paralysis, due to the invasion of a hernia into the spinal canal.

Maybe it will go away on its own?

It won't pass! Even if you managed to temporarily get rid of the pain and return to work, consult a doctor and try to get rid of the spinal hernia as soon as possible.

Anatomically, a herniated disc is an unnatural "protrusion" of the disc tissue beyond its normal position. This happens because of the excessive load on the vertebrae, which the intervertebral disc must protect from friction and destruction. The main objectives of non-surgical treatment of disc herniation without surgery:

• Restore the normal shape and volume (height) of the disk;
• Remove the inflammatory process and its consequences;
• Restore tissues and organs damaged by infringement;
• Relieve the patient of pain and restore normal mobility to the joints of the vertebrae.

With all the variety of types and forms of spinal hernias, they are treated in compliance with the same principles. A complex is necessarily used: medicines, vitamins, physiotherapy, gymnastics and regimen. Just be sure to check with an experienced doctor how to get rid of an intervertebral hernia without surgery in your case!

The generally accepted treatment of spinal hernia without surgery begins with complete examination bones, cartilage, nerves and blood vessels. If all the identified problems and disorders can be corrected with the help of medicines and gymnastics, then the patient is treated conservatively, he will not be offered an operation.

Stage one: relieve pain, relieve inflammation

To this end, the doctor individually prescribes to the patient drugs from the group of modern non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, which combine the action of analgesics and inflammation-blocking drugs.

The most famous name is iclofenac. In the acute period, it is prescribed in the form of injections, in the future, external agents (ointments and creams) with the same active substance can be used. Reviews about him in the thematic sections “how to treat a hernia” are mostly positive, although the list side effects and the contraindications are quite impressive. The therapeutic effect is achieved on the first day of application. Injections should not be done for more than 3 days in a row.

Quite often, another well-known NSAID is included in the treatment of vertebral hernias without surgery - nimesulide. It eliminates acute pain and inflammation not only in the spine - it helps well with any localization of the pain syndrome and is well tolerated by patients. However, long-term use of this drug must be agreed with the doctor.

All forms ibuprofen also fit. This is a modern, well-tolerated drug that will cope with pain of moderate intensity with a minimum side effects for the patient. Subject to the recommended dosage and duration of administration, ibuprofen-based drugs help to cure an intervertebral hernia without surgery, although they have limited capabilities.

To eliminate those provoked by hernia, treatment may also include ketorol and ketoprofen. Sometimes doctors prescribe analgesics separately from anti-inflammatory drugs (in tablet or injection form), and even blockades.

Cartilage repair is a must!

Treatment of vertebral hernias without surgery cannot do without measures to restore cartilage tissue. Preparations from among chondroprotectors will definitely be included in the course of therapy.

The muscles that support the spine begin to work incorrectly when pain occurs. Unconsciously or consciously, the patient takes postures that are unnatural for ordinary life, especially in sleep. At the same time, the muscle tissue experiences overstrain and spasms.

Muscle relaxants are the next step towards curing spinal hernia without surgery. It is not necessary to neglect the intake of drugs of this group, although their price is higher than average. List leaders: Mydocalm and Sirdalur.

When the roots of the spinal nerves are infringed, it is necessary not only to remove the inflammation that always occurs in the area of ​​infringement and adjacent tissues, but also to restore the nerve fiber. Infringement of the nerve is always accompanied by very sharp pain, which is difficult to drown out with painkillers alone.

But even if there is no infringement, the nervous tissue almost always becomes inflamed due to proximity to the site of damage or lack of blood supply and nutrition. As soon as the activity of neurons is restored, the pain will immediately subside. cure hernia without vitamin complexes almost impossible for nerves.

B vitamins are well-known helpers in the treatment of various disorders nervous system. Non-surgical treatment of intervertebral hernia is most conveniently accompanied by combined preparations containing several compatible vitamins at once. Although taking each individually will have an effect.

Thiamine (B1) prevents atrophy, pyridoxine (B6) activates nutrition processes, and B12 improves the conductivity of muscle and nerve fibers. It is desirable to supplement this mandatory trio with other vitamins:

• Retinol (A) - to enhance the processes of formation and restoration of tissues, primarily connective, cartilage and bone;
• Ascorbic acid (C) - improves the general condition of the connective tissue, its elasticity and strength.

By the way, with the help of vitamins, we not only get rid of the nervous problem, but also strengthen the overall immunity, and this contributes to an even faster fight against the disease. Course intake of vitamin complexes does not hurt to carry out every six months.

After a period of complete rest and bed rest, after relieving acute pain, you can proceed to a visit to a physiotherapy room, a massage therapist and a rehabilitation specialist or an exercise therapy instructor. All these procedures are aimed at treating the spine, in particular its bone and cartilage tissue.

The previously started intake of chondroprotectors continues for several weeks (months) after the completion of the main drug stage. Since the destruction of the cartilage did not happen all at once, then its revival will require approximately the same period.

Physiotherapy

Physiotherapy is prescribed to accelerate the recovery processes in cartilage, bones, muscles and nerves, as well as to improve blood and lymph circulation. Various types of procedures are used, the appointment of which should be entrusted to specialists. It is necessary to take into account the general history and comorbidities of the patient.

Massage

Massage and self-massage are allowed only in the subacute period and during remission. During an exacerbation, it can seriously harm. The optimal time to start a massage course will be determined by the attending physician. Thanks to the full course, patients safely get rid of muscle spasms, disorders of muscle innervation, regain mobility and confidence in their movements.

Self-massage is somewhat limited, but its use in the lumbar region and cervical-collar zone significantly improves and maintains the condition of patients.

ADVICE! Learn self-massage techniques to help you get back to your normal routine as quickly as possible after a long sick leave.

Physiotherapy

Patients who have had a hernial mass removed surgically and those who have received herniated disc treatment without surgery are in an equal position at the rehabilitation stage. Doing should become daily for any of these patients. This is the only way to cure your spine completely and save it from new problems.

Exercise therapy and intervertebral hernia: treatment without surgery

The exercise therapy complex is selected individually depending on the direction of the hernial protrusion, its intensity, location and stage.

Physical exercises help to return the movements to accuracy and correctness. A recovering patient needs to constantly monitor his postures and muscle condition, do not allow them to overstrain and, of course, no weights!

After the hernia of the spine has been cured, the patient should not relax and return to the previous rhythm of life. Some preventive restrictions are needed: it is important to observe the diet and balance of nutrition, prevent weight gain, exercise daily, and exercise. It will be more difficult to cure a hernia again in the same place, so the doctor will monitor the dynamics of the spine, periodically comparing new research results with previous ones.

Video about the treatment of spinal hernia without surgery