Please call 911 immediately if you are having chest pain, difficulty breathing, severe bleeding, sudden weakness or numbness, or if you think you have a medical emergency.
Slipped Disk Treatment
Call 911 if the person has a slipped disk and:
Loses bladder or bowel control
Has weakness in the arms or legs
1. Treat Pain
Changing positions or shifting posture may reduce immediate discomfort.
Apply a cold compress several times a day for no more than 20 minutes at a time.
Give nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medication.
2. Have the Person Rest
Lying flat for a day or two may help.
The person should avoid activities such as lifting or pushing.
3. See a Health Care Provider
All slipped discs should be evaluated.
4. Follow Up
The health care provider may recommend muscle relaxants, anti-inflammatory medications, injections of pain reliever, or physical therapy.
Most people feel better within six weeks.
In some cases, back surgery is necessary.
WebMD Medical Reference
SOURCES:
American Academy of Family Physicians: “Herniated Disk: What It Is and What You Can Do.”
American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons: “Herniated Disk.”
Johns Hopkins Health Alerts: "Herniated Disk."
Cleveland Clinic: "Herniated Disc."
Rosen, J. Essentials of Emergency Medicine, Mosby-Year Book, 1991.