UKC

Can prolapsed discs recover and heal?

In reply to The Lemming:

I'm not a physio, but I had a very painful and debilitating prolapsed disk that has recovered - no real pain anymore anyway, only occasional mild sciatica. It has taken 2.5 years to get there.

I think once the disc has oozed the jelly centre out, it tends not to fully recover - so the Consultant said to me.

But now we'll both wait to see what a physio has to say, they'll be one along in a moment!

In reply to The Lemming:

Yes, depending on the size and initial nerve damage. There are some studies out there even for large prolapses.

I had spinal surgery last week for a bilateral 2cm+ prolapse (i.e massive) which was causing all sorts of neurological symptoms in my pelvis and legs.

I don't think this would have got better on its own - having talked to many physios, doctors and surgeon.

Its all a balance of surgical risk vs perceived benefit. Scar tissue can form if its left alone, as it can if you have it cut out. The main risks of surgery are recurrence, infection, nerve damage and anaesthetic risks.