[Common Diseases] Herniated Disc
A Complete Guide to Treating Herniated Disc (Hong Kong Edition)
A herniated disc (also known as a herniated or slipped disc) is a common spinal condition among urban residents, particularly those who spend long hours in an office, have poor posture, or frequently lift heavy objects. It primarily occurs when the annulus fibrosus (annulus fibrosus) between the vertebrae ruptures, causing the nucleus pulposus within to squeeze outward and compress nearby nerves, resulting in back pain, sciatica, numbness in the hands and feet, and even limited mobility.
As an editor, I have compiled many Hong Kong and international medical articles, and combined them with local medical resources to provide you with a detailed analysis of treatment methods and precautions.
1. Non-surgical treatment (conservative treatment)
Most patients with herniated disc will initially undergo non-surgical treatment, especially when their symptoms are mild and there is no serious neurological dysfunction.
1. Drug treatment
- Pain relievers : Such as acetaminophen (Paracetamol) or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to reduce inflammation and pain.
- Muscle relaxants : Relax muscles that are tense due to pain.
- Neuropathic pain medications , such as gabapentin or pregabalin, treat neuropathic pain.
Orthopedic surgeons or neurosurgeons often prescribe medications in Hong Kong public hospitals. Prescriptions are also available in private clinics, but attention should be paid to the side effects of the medications.
2. Physiotherapy
- Traction therapy : relieves pressure on the intervertebral disc.
- Electrotherapy : such as interferential therapy and ultrasound therapy.
- Core muscle training : Improve back stability and reduce the risk of recurrence.
- Posture correction : Learn the correct way to sit and carry things.
In Hong Kong, physiotherapy can be obtained through referral from public hospitals (where waiting times are long) or the private system (where costs vary depending on the number of sessions).
3. Lifestyle adjustments
- Reduce prolonged sitting : Get up and move around every 30 minutes.
- Control your weight : reduce the burden on your spine.
- Avoid lifting heavy objects : or use the correct posture to lift them.
2. Minimally invasive or injection treatment
If conservative treatments don't work or the pain continues to interfere with your life, your doctor may recommend the following:
1. Epidural Steroid Injection
- Under X-ray or ultrasound guidance, steroids are injected around the nerve to reduce inflammation and swelling.
- The effects generally last for weeks to months and are suitable for short-term pain relief.
2. Percutaneous Disc Decompression
- A fine needle or radiofrequency device is used to remove part of the nucleus pulposus to reduce nerve pressure.
- It is a minimally invasive technique with a quick recovery period.
3. Surgical treatment
When a herniated disc causes severe nerve compression (such as incontinence, lower limb weakness) or long-term pain that cannot be improved, surgery becomes a necessary option.
Common surgical methods
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Discectomy
- The herniated nucleus pulposus was removed to decompress the nerves.
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Microdiscectomy
- Using a microscope to assist, the incision is small, the damage is minimal, and the recovery is quick.
-
Artificial Disc Replacement
- Replace damaged intervertebral discs and preserve spinal mobility (suitable for some patients).
The cost of surgery in Hong Kong's public hospitals is low, but the waiting time is long; the cost of surgery in private hospitals depends on the doctor and the level of the hospital, and can range from tens of thousands to over 100,000 Hong Kong dollars.
IV. Rehabilitation and Prevention
- Postoperative rehabilitation : Physical therapy and core muscle training are required.
- Daily maintenance : maintain good posture and do moderate exercise (such as swimming, Pilates, and yoga).
- Avoid high-risk actions : such as suddenly twisting your waist to lift heavy objects.
Tips on Hong Kong Medical Resources
- Orthopedic clinics in public hospitals : Referral from a family doctor or general practitioner is required.
- Private orthopedic specialists : Short waiting time, higher cost.
- Physiotherapy centres : located throughout Hong Kong, Kowloon and the New Territories, with licensed physiotherapists available for selection.
💬Let me tell you :
A herniated disc doesn't necessarily require surgery; many cases can be improved with medication, physical therapy, and lifestyle adjustments. However, if you experience lower limb weakness, loss of sensation, or incontinence, you must seek medical attention immediately, as this could be cauda equina syndrome, a medical emergency.
⚠️ Disclaimer <br>This article is for reference only and does not constitute any medical advice. It is sourced from major medical articles.
