A herniated disc is the most common diagnosis for lower back pain, and there is a great deal of misinformation surrounding disc herniation. In this short article we will debunk 4 of the most common myths related to herniated discs.

MYTH 1: DISCS CAN EASILY “SLIP” OUT OF PLACE
Though the term “slipped disc” is in common usage, discs don’t really slide out of position. In fact, such an occurrence is impossible since discs, the gelatinous cushions between the vertebrae, are firmly attached to the spinal column by two strong ligaments.

MYTH 2: A DIAGNOSIS OF DISC HERNIATION MEANS BIG TROUBLE
The fact that a herniated disc shows up on your MRI is not necessarily indicative of the source of your pain. Discs normally wear down as we age, so having bulging discs is not a medical calamity. Studies have shown that most people, especially as they get older, have some degree of herniated discs, but many have no pain associated with this condition. In fact, herniated discs only cause pain in a small percentage of people.

MYTH 3: HERNIATED DISCS CAN ONLY BE TREATED SURGICALLY
A very high proportion of herniated discs improve and resolve on their own with physical therapy and anti-inflammatory medications, and/or spinal injections. With a program tailored to your particular problem, you may very well be able to recover from pain resulting from a herniated disc without a surgical procedure.

MYTH 4: HERNIATED DISCS WILL NEVER HEAL
Contrary to popular belief, the recovery rate of herniated discs is relatively high. Three main processes are thought to reduce the symptoms caused by a lumbar herniated disc:

  • An immune response by your body. Your body may recognize the portion of your disc that has herniated as foreign material and attack it, reducing the overall size of the fragment.
  • Absorption of water. The herniated fragment of your disc contains water. Over time this water will be absorbed by your body, causing the herniated segment of your disc to shrink in size.
  • Natural disc mechanics. Some will argue that through extension exercises, the symptomatic portion of your disc can be moved inward toward the disc and away from your spinal nerves.

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