Slipped discs, also known as herniated discs, can cause severe pain and discomfort, making it challenging to carry out day-to-day activities. While traditional treatments like medication and surgery can be effective, they can also be invasive and expensive. As a result, many people turn to alternative treatments for slipped discs, which promise to provide relief in a less invasive way.
These slipped-disc treatments include chiropractic care, acupuncture, massage therapy, physical therapy, and yoga. These treatments are designed to alleviate pain and improve mobility without needing medication or surgery. However, not all alternative treatments are effective enough to help you.
In this blog, we’ll take a deep dive into the world of alternative treatments for slipped discs and separate the wheat from the chaff. So, let’s look at the alternative treatments for slipped discs in detail below.
Chiropractic Care
Chiropractic care is an alternative slipped disc treatment. It involves spinal adjustments and manipulations to treat various conditions, including slipped discs.
Some chiropractors believe spinal alignment can alleviate pressure on the affected nerves to promote effective healing. While some studies have shown that chiropractic care can effectively treat slipped discs, others have produced conflicting results. Here are some possible risks and side effects:
- These adjustments are usually uncomfortable or painful.
- Some people experience soreness or stiffness after an adjustment.
- Chiropractic care may not be suitable for people with certain medical conditions, such as osteoporosis or spinal cord compression.
- A chiropractic adjustment can cause a herniated or worsening disc in rare cases.
Simply put, discussing the risks and benefits of chiropractic care with a qualified healthcare professional before starting treatment is essential to prevent unwanted complications. Besides chiropractic care, acupuncture is also an effective treatment for slipped discs. So, let’s look at it in detail below.
Acupuncture
Acupuncture is another alternative treatment for slipped discs that requires inserting thin needles in the body to treat pain due to ailments. This ancient Chinese practice has emerged as a potential treatment for slipped discs.
According to various studies, acupuncture can help reduce pain and improve mobility in herniated discs. When you are considering acupuncture for slipped discs, it’s important to know that there are some possible risks and side effects that you must know, such as
- Soreness or bruising
- Fatigue or lightheadedness
- Nausea or vomiting
- Risk of infection.
Despite the potential risks, many patients find acupuncture a safe and effective treatment for slipped discs. If you want to try acupuncture again, consult a licensed practitioner who can guide you through the process and address any concerns.
Now that we have discussed chiropractic care, it’s important to know about massage therapy and its effectiveness in treating slipped discs. So, let’s look at it in detail below.
Massage Therapy
Massage therapy is a popular alternative for treating slipped discs. It involves manipulating muscles and soft tissues to promote relaxation and relieve pain.
As per the studies, massage therapy can improve the range of motion, reduce muscle tension, and alleviate pain associated with a slipped disc. However, limited scientific evidence supports its effectiveness in treating the condition’s underlying causes.
Therefore, if you’re considering massage therapy, it’s important to note that there may be some possible risks and side effects, including
- Soreness or discomfort during or after the massage
- Bruising or swelling of the affected area
- Aggravation of an existing injury or condition
Despite these risks, many people find massage therapy a safe and effective treatment for their slipped discs. Additionally, yoga and exercises are good alternatives for treating slipped discs.
Yoga and Exercise
Yoga and exercise are excellent ways to alleviate the pain and discomfort of slipped discs. By engaging in low-impact physical activities, you can gradually strengthen the muscles supporting the spine, reducing the risk of re-injury.
According to various studies, yoga can improve flexibility, reduce inflammation, and promote relaxation, which improves overall spinal health. Exercises, such as walking or swimming, can also be beneficial for strengthening the core muscles that support the back.
However, yoga and exercise can be effective for many people with slipped discs, but they may not work for everyone.
- Additionally, it is important to approach these activities cautiously and avoid overexertion, as this can exacerbate the condition.
- Possible risks and side effects of yoga and exercise for slipped discs may include muscle strain, increased pain, and worsened symptoms if not performed correctly or under the guidance of a trained professional.
Besides yoga and other exercises, dietary supplements are a good alternative for treating slipped discs. So, let’s discuss it in detail below.
Dietary and Herbal Supplements
Dietary and herbal supplements have also gained popularity for treating slipped discs due to their natural properties. These supplements may include vitamins, minerals, and herbs that are believed to support the body’s natural healing process. Some popular slip-disc supplements include glucosamine, chondroitin, turmeric, and omega-3 fatty acids.
While some studies have suggested that these supplements may effectively reduce inflammation and pain associated with slipped discs, more research is needed to establish their efficacy. However, it’s important to note that taking supplements may also come with possible risks and side effects. These include allergic reactions, digestive issues, and interactions with other medications.
As with any treatment, speaking with a healthcare provider before taking dietary or herbal supplements to treat slipped discs is crucial.
Bottom Line
Overall, several alternative treatments for slipped discs can be effective in providing relief and promoting healing. Chiropractic care, massage therapy, acupuncture, yoga, exercise, and dietary and herbal supplements are some popular, beneficial choices.
Therefore, it is important to discuss the benefits and risks of each alternative treatment with a qualified healthcare provider before deciding on a treatment plan.
Nearly 1 to 5% of people suffer from this issue. Incorporating alternative treatments and conventional medical care can provide a more holistic approach to treating slipped discs and promoting overall wellness. Individuals can take control of their health and achieve optimal healing by proactively exploring all available options.