For most patients with a bulging disc, natural treatment options can help to control symptoms and aid in healing. Natural treatment options for a bulging disc include:

1. Rest

It is important to allow your body the time that it needs to heal. Don’t rest or remain inactive for extended periods of time as this can do more harm than good. Avoid any activities that aggravate your bulging disc symptoms.

2. Physical therapy

At times, your physician will prescribe physical therapy sessions to help with symptom control. A physical therapist will teach you exercises and stretches that strengthen your core muscles, help to increase your flexibility and avoid disc re-injury.

3. Heat and ice therapy

A combination of heat and ice therapy can be useful to help relieve pain and aid in healing. Heat therapy increases circulation and soothes sore muscles. Ice therapy helps to reduce swelling and inflammation as well as pain. Your physical therapist or physician can recommend the best rotation of these therapies for your bulging disc.

4. Exercise and stretching

It is important to stay active and maintain a healthy body weight. Low-impact aerobic activities such as swimming, walking, biking, the elliptical trainer, or yoga are activities that keep you moving while avoiding high impact, contact or disc re-injury.

5. Eat an anti-inflammatory diet

One way to help control inflammation in the body and relieve bulging disc symptoms is to eat an anti-inflammatory diet. This type of diet is nutrient-dense and avoids processed foods. Leafy green vegetables, fresh fruit, lean protein, healthy fats and whole grains are all foods that can help you avoid the inflammation that fuels neck and back pain.

6. Alternative and complementary treatment

Many patients find successful symptom relief with alternative and complementary treatment options including chiropractic care, acupuncture, yoga, massage therapy and essential oils.

In addition to the 6 natural bulging disc treatments you can do at home, your physician may also encourage you to make lifestyle modifications such as losing weight, quitting smoking, reducing alcohol intake, or avoiding participation in contact sports. All these lifestyle factors, if modified, can help to improve the symptoms of a bulging disc.

When Natural Bulging Disc Remedies Aren’t Enough

If you have tried natural bulging disc treatment options for a few months, and you find that the symptoms are still interfering with your everyday life, minimally invasive surgical options may be the next step.

USA Spine Care’s minimally invasive procedures allow patients to have a safer and effective alternative to traditional open spine surgery. USA Spine Care has helped more than 75,000 patients find relief. For more information and a free review of your MRI or CT scan* to find out if you are a candidate for one of our minimally invasive spine procedures, contact USA Spine Care today.