Alternative treatments are options that fall outside the medical mainstream, such as herbal supplements, yoga, acupuncture, massage therapy and chiropractic care. While there is debate among doctors and medical researchers about their effectiveness, patients try these types of treatments for a number of reasons. This can include personal beliefs or a desire to fully explore all options in their search for relief from the pain caused by conditions such as a herniated disc.

If attempting any new form of treatment, it is critical to continue to work in close partnership with your primary care doctor to make sure that any treatment alternatives are compatible with your existing conventional treatment.

Common alternative treatments

Here are some of the most popular alternative treatments that patients with a herniated disc turn to:

• Chiropractic treatment. In the office of a licensed and certified chiropractor, you might undergo spinal manipulation therapy. During this treatment, your chiropractor will attempt to align the vertebrae and discs in an attempt to relieve the pressure a herniated disc can place on spinal nerves.
• Restorative yoga. This type of yoga that places a particular emphasis on therapeutic techniques for people dealing with painful conditions such as a herniated disc. Restorative yoga poses are gentle in nature and may often involve the use of aids, such as a chair. Benefits of yoga include stress reduction, a stronger core and better posture.
• Herbal remedies. Many patients report reducing pain and inflammation by taking herbal supplements as recommended by a reputable herbologist. Turmeric, ginger and sage are some of the natural remedies purported to help relieve chronic neck or back pain.

When to consider surgery

Many patients are able to find the relief necessary for a good quality of life by following a doctor’s recommendation for conservative treatment. In some cases, a comprehensive plan that involves alternative treatments such as the ones listed above can help a patient find lasting relief. However, if therapeutic options are exhausted and months have gone by without improving symptoms, or if they get worse, spine surgery may be recommended.

Doctors and patients alike view traditional open neck or back procedures as a last resort because of the large incision, overnight hospitalization and long recovery period that is involved. At USA Spine Care we offer a safer and effective alternative^ with our minimally invasive spine surgery that is performed on an outpatient basis.

If you’d like to learn more, or find out if you may be a candidate for one of our procedures, reach out to our dedicated team today and ask for a no-cost review of your MRI or CT scan.*

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