Treatment of lumbar disc herniation: Evidence-based practice

Abstract

Andrew J Schoenfeld1, Bradley K Weiner21Department of Orthopedic Surgery, William Beaumont Army Medical Center, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, El Paso, TX, USA; 2Weill Cornell Medical College and The Methodist Hospital, Houston, TX, USAClinical question: What is the best treatment for lumbar disc herniations? Results: For patients failing six weeks of conservative care, the current literature supports surgical intervention or prolonged conservative management as appropriate treatment options for lumbar radiculopathy in the setting of disc herniation. Surgical intervention may result in more rapid relief of symptoms and restoration of function.Implementation: While surgery appears to provide more rapid relief, many patients will gradually get better with continued nonoperative management; thus, patient education and active participation in decision-making is vital.Keywords: lumbar disc, herniation, back pain, spine