L5 Herniated Disc Treatment: Invasive And Safer Options

Our findings show that nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen or naproxen are commonly prescribed for managing mild to moderate pain. In more severe cases, muscle relaxants or oral corticosteroids may be used to alleviate muscle spasms. 

While opioids may occasionally be prescribed for short-term relief, we advise against their use, as they come with a risk of dependency as well as other side effects.

Physical therapy is part of the rehabilitation process for an L5 herniated disc. A structured therapy program involves exercises to stretch and strengthen the muscles that support the spine, improving flexibility and stability. 

In addition to targeted exercises, physical therapists may employ techniques such as manual therapy, electrical stimulation, and heat or ice therapy. 

Core stabilization exercises are important, as they reduce the strain on the lumbar spine by strengthening the muscles in the abdomen and lower back. 

Chiropractic care for an L5 herniated disc is another common non-surgical option. Chiropractors use spinal adjustments to realign the vertebrae. 

This is supposedly meant to relieve pressure on the affected nerve. However, this mistakenly assumes the pain comes from a pinched nerve. The truth is that inflammation is the root of back pain, and chiropractic care cannot cure this inflammatory response. 

Changing your lifestyle can help you manage an L5 herniated disc and prevent further injury, not cure it. 

Maintaining a healthy weight can reduce the strain on the spine. Regular low-impact exercises like walking, swimming, or yoga can help improve circulation, flexibility, and overall spinal health. 

Good posture when sitting or lifting objects can prevent pressure on the lower back. For many patients, incorporating heat or cold therapy into their routine can also help manage pain and inflammation. But these are only temporary solutions. 

When conservative treatments like physical therapy and medications fail to provide sufficient relief, injection-based therapies are used. 

However, it's important to note that while injections can provide temporary relief, they do not address the underlying disc damage. 

Lumbar epidural steroid injections (ESIs) are often used to treat lower back pain caused by an L5 herniated disc. During this procedure, a corticosteroid and local anesthetic are injected into the epidural space around the spinal cord. 

However, the effectiveness of ESIs can vary. Many patients find minimal improvement. 

Surgery is recommended when symptoms persist despite several months of non-surgical treatment or if there is significant disability, such as muscle weakness, numbness, or bladder/bowel control issues. 

Microdiscectomy removes the portion of the disc pressing on the nerve root. While common, it comes with risks like recurrence, nerve damage, or infection. 

• Laminectomy: Removes part of the vertebrae, often for spinal stenosis 
• Spinal fusion: Joins two vertebrae but can cause future strain on nearby discs 
• Artificial disc replacement: Preserves motion but is less commonly used in the lumbar spine 

Common causes include: 

• Aging and disc degeneration 
• Trauma from falls or accidents 
• Poor posture or obesity 
• Sedentary lifestyle 
• Genetics 

Symptoms include lower back pain, sciatica, leg tingling, or weakness. Diagnosis is made through a physical exam and confirmed with imaging like MRI. 

Living with this condition means managing symptoms and preventing further injury. 

Use a combination of NSAIDs, physical therapy, and methods like massage or acupuncture. 

Stay active, maintain a healthy weight, and practice good posture and lifting techniques.

Seek immediate care if you lose bladder or bowel control or experience extreme leg weakness—this may indicate cauda equina syndrome.