Herniated lumbar disk problem?

anyone had a disk herniation that caused terrible pain in the side of the leg, the knee and a burning pain in one toe? If so, what treatment seems to have worked for you?
Answer:
Yes, although I was lucky it mostly disappeared with some time and exercises.For me physical therapy helped the most, it mainly consisted of exercise to improve the flexibility of my muscles, mainly the hamstring and lower back muscles, as well as strengthen my abdominal muscles. Tight hamstrings, weak abs and lower back all put more pressure on your lower back. From your description I would assume you have a pinched nerve, so alleviating some of the pressure may help. Other exercise that could help are walking and swimming, as well as avoiding activities that involve a lot of rotation in respect to your torso and axial pressure (stuff that pushes down on you, like carrying things above your head).Lastly if none of these work surgery may be the only option left. From what I've read lately it tends to be successful to varying degree's in patients, but it's non-invasive now in most cases so your out of the hospital after 1 night.I'd strongly suggests asking a doctor if you haven't already, I'm NOT a doctor, just another guy with a herniated disc. Hope you get better soon.

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ok well i work at century city doctors hospital and the docs there specialize in back surgeries. i have noticed that lots of the new patients we get in the e.r. have similar symptoms as you. most of the patients that end coming in to the e.r. end up getting surgery. its scary but sometimes the only help. there is a really good dr named dr lanman that works out there. the hospital's main number is 310 772 4000. good luck and hope that you get the help you need soon.

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I would suggest that you consider surgery last and consult a chiropractor first to determine if stretching and exercise along with spinal adjustments can help alleviate the pain/pressure from the herniation. Try to find a chiro who has a massage therapist on staff so you can benefit from both therapies at each visit.

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Many docs will suggest conservative treatment first such as physical therapy. Most times that is only effective for a short while. The best treatment is a surgery. Many patients feel tremendous relief after surgery. Talk to your doc about this!

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