Slip Disk Treatment

A slipped disk, also known as a herniated or prolapsed disk, occurs when one of the spinal discs that sit between the bones (vertebrae) of your spine ruptures or bulges out. This can put pressure on the surrounding nerves, causing pain, numbness, or weakness.

What Is a Slip Disk?

The spine is made up of vertebrae and discs. The discs act as cushions between the vertebrae. A slipped disk happens when the inner gel-like core of a disc protrudes through a tear in the outer layer.

This herniation may irritate nearby nerves and result in:

Back or neck pain
Radiating pain in arms or legs
Numbness or tingling
Muscle weakness

Causes of a Slip Disk

Aging and disc degeneration
Lifting heavy objects improperly
Sudden pressure or trauma
Repetitive motion injuries
Sedentary lifestyle or obesity
Smoking (reduces disc oxygen supply)

Symptoms of a Slipped Disk

Symptoms depend on the location of the herniation:

In the Lower Back (Lumbar Spine)

Sciatica (pain radiating down one leg)
Numbness or tingling in the foot
Weakness in the leg or foot

In the Neck (Cervical Spine)

Pain near the shoulder blade
Pain radiating down the arm
Numbness in fingers or hands
Difficulty turning or bending the neck

Diagnosis

Physical examination
Neurological tests
X-ray
MRI scan
CT scan
Myelogram (contrast dye test)

Procedure

Treatment Options for Slip Disk

Most herniated discs improve with non-surgical treatment over time. Treatment options include:

1. Conservative Treatments

Rest: Short-term rest (1–2 days)
Medications:
- Pain relievers (acetaminophen, NSAIDs)
- Muscle relaxants
- Nerve pain medications (e.g., gabapentin)
- Steroids (oral or injection)
Physical Therapy: Exercises to relieve pressure, improve flexibility and strength
Hot/cold therapy
Lifestyle modification: Weight loss, posture correction

2. Interventional Treatments

Epidural steroid injections: Reduce inflammation and pain
Nerve block injections

3. Surgical Treatments

If conservative methods fail, surgery may be needed:

Discectomy or Microdiscectomy: Removal of the herniated portion
Laminectomy: Removal of bone overlying spinal canal
Spinal fusion: May be needed if instability is present

Recovery After Surgery

Hospital stay: 1–3 days
Recovery time: 4–6 weeks (simple discectomy), up to 3 months (fusion)
Gradual return to daily activities
Physical rehabilitation for long-term results

Factors That Can Affect Slip Disk Treatment Cost in India

Severity and location of herniation
Type of treatment (non-surgical vs surgical)
Hospital category and location
Doctor’s expertise
Length of hospital stay
Rehabilitation costs

India offers high-quality spine care and affordable pricing compared to many developed countries.

Suggestions

Early diagnosis helps avoid complications
Non-surgical methods are effective for many patients
Maintain a healthy weight and active lifestyle
Avoid heavy lifting and twisting motions
Follow post-treatment physiotherapy plans

The Most Important Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is surgery the only option for a slipped disc?
A: No, most cases improve with rest, medication, and physical therapy.

Q: How long does it take to recover from a slipped disc?
A: Most patients recover within 6–8 weeks with conservative treatment.

Q: When should I consider surgery for a slipped disc?
A: If symptoms persist after 6 weeks or cause significant nerve compression.

Q: Can a slipped disc heal on its own?
A: Yes, in many cases, the disc shrinks and symptoms resolve with time.

Q: What exercises are safe for slipped disc patients?
A: Stretching, core strengthening, walking, and supervised physiotherapy.

Q: Can slipped discs come back after treatment?
A: Yes, especially if lifestyle and posture are not corrected.

Q: Are there any risks with slipped disc surgery?
A: Risks include infection, bleeding, nerve damage, and recurrence of herniation.

Q: What is the success rate of slipped disc surgery?
A: Discectomy has a success rate of over 90% in relieving leg pain (sciatica).