Why Medicines Are Key-Factor in Slipped Disc Recovery
A slipped disc happens when the soft center of a spinal disc pushes out. This will press on nerves. It may cause back pain, numbness, or weakness. For slipped disc treatment in Sattvik Spine, medicines are often the first step. It will reduce pain, bring down swelling, and make the movement easier than before. This helps patients join therapy and rehab. When you understand how these medicines work, you can choose the right treatment.
Target of Treatment
Reduce pain and swelling
Stop muscle spasms
Support physical therapy
Delay or avoid surgery
Improve daily life
Help patients return to normal
Types of Medicines
NSAIDs
These are common drugs for pain and swelling. Some are over-the-counter. Others need a doctor’s note.
Eg: Ibuprofen, Naproxen, Diclofenac
They prevent body chemicals that cause swelling. Long-term use may harm the stomach or kidneys.
Case Example: A 45-year-old office worker took Naproxen for two weeks. Pain dropped, and he could do light exercises and return to work.
Muscle Relaxants
These calm tight muscles and ease spasms.
Eg: Cyclobenzaprine, Baclofen
They act on the brain to relax muscles. They are used only for short times because they make you sleepy.
Case Example: A 38-year-old yoga teacher had spasms from a slipped disc. She took Cyclobenzaprine for five days. Pain eased, and she moved better.
Corticosteroids
These are strong medicines to fight swelling.
Eg: Prednisone, Methylprednisolone
They can be pills or injections near the spine. Injections give faster relief.
Case Example: A 52-year-old construction worker had severe leg pain. He got a steroid injection. Within days, pain went down, and he started rehab exercises.
Opioid Painkillers
These are for very strong pain when other drugs don’t work.
Eg: Tramadol, Hydrocodone
They block pain in the brain and spine. Because they can cause habit, doctors use them only for short times.
Case Example: A 60-year-old man took Tramadol for five days. Pain eased enough for him to begin therapy.
Nerve Pain Medicines
These are for pain from nerve pressure.
Eg: Gabapentin, Pregabalin, Amitriptyline
They change the way nerves send signals. They take a few weeks to show results.
Case Example: A 50-year-old teacher had burning pain in her leg. She took Gabapentin. After three weeks, pain was better, and she slept well.
Combination Treatment
Doctors often mix medicines for better results:
- NSAID + Muscle Relaxant
- Steroid + Nerve Pain Drug
- Short Opioid + Physical Therapy
This way, smaller doses are used, and side effects are less.
Case Example: A 48-year-old engineer took Ibuprofen and Baclofen. Pain and spasms eased. He finished six weeks of therapy.
Risks and Side Effects
| Medicine Type | Side Effects |
|---|---|
| NSAIDs Stomach ulcers | Kidney Harm |
| Muscle Relaxants | Sleepy, Dizzy |
| Steroids | Weight Gain, Mood Changes |
| Opioids Habit | Constipation |
| Nerve Pain Drugs | Tired, Slow Thinking |
New Treatments
Biologic drugs for swelling
Gene therapy for disc repair
PRP and stem cell shots
Case Example: A 35-year-old athlete got PRP shots in a trial. After three sessions, pain was less, and movement improved. Long-term results are still being studied.
Other Helpful Steps
Medicines are not enough alone. Other steps also help:
Physical therapy
Good posture and ergonomic setup
Keeping weight healthy
Yoga and meditation
Case Example: A 42-year-old homemaker added yoga and posture changes at home. She improved a lot and did not need surgery.
When Medicines Don’t Work
If pain or weakness does not get better, surgery may be needed. Surgeries like microdiscectomy or laminectomy remove pressure on nerves.
Case Example: A 55-year-old accountant had surgery after medicines failed. He got his strength back and returned to daily life.
Patient Education
Good guidance on dose, timing, and side effects is important. Patients should ask questions and attend follow-ups.
Case Example: A 30-year-old got a medicine guide and joined support groups. She understood treatment better and followed it well.
Medicines are a key part of slipped disc treatment . They reduce pain, make therapy easier, and may delay surgery.
For expert care, visit Sattvik Spine . You can consults with our slipped disc specialist in Bengaluru
👉 Call Sattvik Spine today and book your appointment. Start your recovery from back pain now.
Share This Story, Choose Your Platform!
Related Posts
Get Social