Question: I have a disc problem in my back and don't want to have surgery. What else can I do?
The management of spinal disc compression varies by location and any symptoms you may have. There are procedures available for disc disease, but relative risks need to be weighed against potential benefits.
Most patients with disc compression do need surgery. Treatment aims to preserve nerve and spinal cord function, and manage pain. Surgery — such as fusion, bone grafting or discectomy — is generally reserved for those who fail to respond to appropriate physiotherapy after six weeks or more, or for those with risks related to spinal nerve or cord injury where delay will result in further damage.
Disc replacement surgery is performed in Europe with varying results, but the procedure is not performed as often in the U.S.