Sometimes even small herniations compress the nerve roots — in that case, surgery is mandatory regardless of size.
1Absolute indications for surgery
- Extrusion — the herniated material breaks away and shifts into the spinal canal
- Acute compression of the nerve roots
- Narrowing of the spinal canal and compression
In all other cases, a herniated intervertebral disc can be treated without surgery.
2What does osteopathic treatment target?
Osteopathic treatment aims to eliminate or correct the musculoskeletal and internal organ dysfunctions that led to the herniation. The ultimate goal is to restore the normal position of the vertebrae relative to one another, the unified healthy mobility of all parts of the spine, and the normal functioning of the body as a whole.
During treatment, the pathological pressure in the intervertebral disc is eliminated, muscle spasm is relieved, pain stops and blood circulation is restored.
3Does the size of the herniation decrease?
Based on our own experience and on observations made around the world, it can be noted that in most patients who receive proper treatment and rehabilitation, the size of the herniation may decrease. In the acute pain phase, the goal of treatment is usually to relieve nerve compression and inflammation; a reduction in size usually does not occur sooner than 6–12 months.