What is the outlook for people with herniated discs?

Most back and leg pain will get better gradually — usually within six weeks — by taking simple measures. In fact, most people with herniated discs respond to conservative treatment within six weeks and are able to return to their normal activities. Some will continue to have back pain even after treatment.

Last reviewed by a Cleveland Clinic medical professional on 07/22/2014.

References

  • North American Spine Society. Herniated Cervical Disc Accessed 8/18/2014.
  • North American Spine Society. Herniated Lumbar Disc Accessed 8/18/2014.
  • American Academy of Family Physicians. Herniated Disk Accessed 8/18/2014.
  • Frohna WJ, Della-Giustina D. Chapter 276. Neck and Back Pain. In: Tintinalli JE, Stapczynski J, Ma O, Cline DM, Cydulka RK, Meckler GD, T. eds. Tintinalli's Emergency Medicine: A Comprehensive Study Guide, 7e. New York, NY: McGraw-Hill; 2011. library.ccf.org Accessed 8/18/2014.

Cleveland Clinic is a non-profit academic medical center. Advertising on our site helps support our mission. We do not endorse non-Cleveland Clinic products or services. Policy