Can a Disc Herniation Heal Itself?

A herniated disc can heal itself. Dr. Shim explains how.
For more information, please see our blog at: www.shimspine....
Citations:
Boden SD, Davis DO, Dina TS, Patronas NJ, Wiesel SW. Abnormal magnetic-resonance scans of the lumbar spine in asymptomatic subjects. A prospective investigation. J Bone Joint Surg Am. 1990 Mar;72(3):403-8. PubMed PMID: 2312537
Chiu CC, Chuang TY, Chang KH, Wu CH, Lin PW, Hsu WY. The probability of spontaneous regression of lumbar herniated disc: a systematic review. Clin Rehabil. 2015 Feb;29(2):184-95. PubMed PMID: 25009200
Demirel A, Yorubulut M, Ergun N. Regression of lumbar disc herniation by physiotherapy. Does non-surgical spinal decompression therapy make a difference? Double-blind randomized controlled trial. J Back Musculoskelet Rehabil. 2017 Sep 22;30(5):1015-1022. PubMed PMID: 28505956
Macki M, Hernandez-Hermann M, Bydon M, Gokaslan A, McGovern K, Bydon A. Spontaneous regression of sequestrated lumbar disc herniations: Literature review. Clin Neurol Neurosurg. 2014 May;120:136-41. PubMed PMID: 24630494
Yang X, Zhang Q, Hao X, Guo X, Wang L. Spontaneous regression of herniated lumbar discs: Report of one illustrative case and review of the literature. Clin Neurol Neurosurg. 2016 Apr;143:86-9. PubMed PMID: 26907997

[@mfaisalmehmood8777]

How many people are watching this with back pain?

[@dustincombs7127]

Everyone watching

[@shreeprasadishetty7289]

Me

[@dongyangyi8401]

only people with back pain are watching it lol

[@Cheeba__]

Praying for everyone in the comments , that our bodies heal itself quickly 😭🙏🏽 im right there with you 😭💚

[@Cheeba__]

D I 😭😭😭 thank you !

[@bLaZeRs4dub]

The Cheeba Lounge this is so painful. Going on day 7 of severe pain.

[@simplyfood.1016]

Ameen thank you ✌

[@juanpadilla8408]

Im 20 years old and just got diagnosed with a herniated disc. If anyone has any tips feel free to send my way

[@catchinxbodiezz9299]

How can a girl injury herself?

[@desertspectre2881]

I thought this guy was BS because I was in serious pain! But one day I woke up and didn't feel so bad. Then as weeks went on I forgot what pain I had. My own body healed itself. Thank God and bless this man for spreading positive energy.

[@ShimSpineVideos]

What a refreshing comment. Most people, out of frustration "shoot the messenger". I believe in intelligent design. Our bodies can and do heal, and in the right circumstance, we should be patient enough to allow it to do so. Sometimes, you do need medications, or even surgery. But, if you can, wait to see if it gets better. As a spine surgeon, I know how it can seem so desperate. But my happiest patients are the ones I helped avoid surgery. Cheers. Be confident. Someone is watching over you. kzbin.info/www/bejne/lYC6c2tqrLFrnac

[@anasepulvedawli8417]

I agree. Was in devastating pain too. 6 weeks it is tolerable with no meds.

[@tenfour000]

@@ShimSpineVideos Your video was an excellent visual representation of what I needed to see, probably the best explanation of all videos. But the belief that the discs can recover alone is almost unbelievable since there is no guarantee although miraculously they could because of regenerational growth of the body. This means that there is hope in healing alone without any other needs. My question is: Would you recommend anything else, like a treatment of some kind, maybe Yoga? Thank you .

[@melvinojr7318]

@@anasepulvedawli8417 I have a bulging disc pinching my nerve. Severe pain at times and weakness and tingling in left leg. I was going to get surgery but after hearing some comments I'm second guessing this decision. I see your post was 1 month ago. If you don't mind me asking how do you feel now?

[@anasepulvedawli8417]

@@melvinojr7318 with PT very good. I can now sit without pain.

[@vaakdemandante8772]

Got a herniated disk, the orthopedic surgeon I consulted with recommended he removes my two adjacent bones and replaces them with a single titanium implant, which would limit my mobility and then have to be replaced every 10 years - his words, not mine. I did not listen to him and just used a mild form of stretching and waited it out - I feel fine and do an MRI from time to time, to keep it under control. No surgery was ever needed. If I let this quack operate on me, I would lose both money and health, and be forever tied to hospitals and surgeries. Some doctors are just criminals in white coats. Thank you for the video, I support this message and confirm that in mild cases there's nothing to worry about - rest and let the body repair itself.

[@geekygirl648]

After how many months or years do u get ur MRI re check?

[@samlalala-hw6kj]

yeah spinal fusion for one herniated disc is contraindicated only recommended for the most extreme cases. The better surgery for minor problems is microdiscectomy.

[@geekygirl648]

@@samlalala-hw6kj should I consult orthopedic surgeon or Neuro surgeon

[@geekygirl648]

@@samlalala-hw6kj mine is mild to moderate c2 to c7 Orthopedic surgeon said it's nothing while I'm in pain since last 7 years

[@shakthi9539]

Im suffering from pain past 5 months...Now my pain is gone away😌...U just need a good dr. And excellent physio✅...And a full bed rest🙂...Ur body will mostly heal itself...If you r reading this with ur painnn...You will be cured...Im praying...God Bless You💝

[@arunantony1251]

Thank u for ur comment can i get your number i have the same problem 🥺

[@akshatkhare1375]

How much bed rest

[@paulwilkinson3963]

@@akshatkhare1375bed rest should be minimal in most causes , it only slows down the healing and can even make it worse

[@muslimah6059]

​​@@akshatkhare1375One month + exercise You will get better result insha Allah

[@taiwoolutola4176]

Amen

[@julioarturo4205]

I’m a doctor From Mexico. I want to share my experience. I had two dorsal hernias. I was in permanente pain for 15 years. I couldn’t walk straight. I had to use my arms to stand. I saw a lot of specialists one of them its my friend a specialist in rehab. , he said to me , you don’t need surgery your ciático nerve it’s not compressed. I ha a change in my live. I quit my job in a public hospital and worked only in my private practice. I start having a better life with my family , ejercice ( walking and swimming) and less stres. My pain disappeared miraculously in 1990. . I’m 73 years old now. My body heal itself. My greetings and my best wishes from Mexico. I’m sure you all wil be ok. Surgery must be the last option.

[@matenorth]

What made your pain go?

[@julioarturo4205]

@@matenorth I think that I used to worked to much. To much stress and almost nothing off exercise. When I was 35 I decided to change my way of live. I resigned to my hospital job. I continue only with my private practice. That gave me the chance to have time for exercise . Swimming and walking. I also try to keep my weight. At that time I had 4 surgeries two days a week in the public hospital. Those surgeries were performed standing up . Now i do one surgeries a week and sitting down. But basically I think two things were important, do only the things you like to do and move your body. Most of the pain is cause by contraction of muscles in your back , if you do,exercise you relax those muscles. My best wishes for you.

[@xcobyxzei]

I’m glad your okay now ❤

[@janesaagurang]

i have back pain 2 years untilpresent i pray one day this herniated disc well healed in gods perfect time sometimes im been losing my hope to go back in a normal life its so hard carrying this kind of illness but when i read your testimony its encourage me alot to fight this kind of illness

[@shreeprasadishetty7289]

​@@janesaagurangsuffering from cervical mylophathy and hernated disc....pls suggest me lifestyle

[@smith2186]

This is the only video out of 1000s i have seen in KZbin where people really came out to write there success story of recovery in comment section,really appreciate you guys ❤️

[@ELEKSIR]

i do this about 2 weeks and im feeling better and better kzbin.info/www/bejne/mKevoYJ9rpdlhMU

[@HWolfe]

Their success stories are wonderful.

[@pathanimomindubai3908]

oooh dr. God bless u currently my husbsnd is facing such condition i want him to b little patient as he is..

[@Teh-Jones]

More information in this 5 minute video than I've been able to leach from two doctors, physician assistants, and physical therapists over the past month and half... Thank you kindly.

[@danielhildebrand6553]

So true, if this was explained to me like this at the beginning! I would have known I was in for a journey of expected pain but would be wroth it on the end. I though the didn’t care but 9 weeks later no more nerve pain still in pain but no more burning sensations

[@ivanplacido6996]

Let me guess. You went to American doctors ?

[@Teh-Jones]

I do indeed live in America, so yep. @@ivanplacido6996

[@deanmoriarty6015]

literally. in america you spend thousands only for your insurance to not cover it and your doctors to give you little to no information.

[@Teh-Jones]

I can't say I disagree with you, it's certainly a broken system...@@deanmoriarty6015

[@shyamsundar8665]

I had l4 l5 & l5 s1 disc bulge/disc herniation(MRI) . I had severe pain in my lower back . Now I don't have any pain may be 0.5 sometimes or 0 out of 10 . Am doing some decompression stretches and praying to Jesus daily. Everyone who reads this comment. Don't worry 😊 It will heal by God's grace😇 Don't lose hope

[@KianSaresei]

How did you healed your i5 s1 ? I’m fighting 10 months now 🥲

[@aaronmoleka5006]

Amen I just healed after 3 weeks not a month yet and I thank the lord Jesus Christ for that.

[@smith2186]

@shyam sundar hi brother how many months it took for you to get pain free

[@cosmonauteable9151]

praying to jesus daily LMAOOOOO bruh, get into the pool and do strenghtening exercises. Stretching by itself will not fix the root cause neither will praying LMAO

[@phatbastard22]

@@cosmonauteable9151 what exercises do you recommend?

[@dakotadad8835]

This video almost brought me to tears giving me hope. I’ve been in agonizing pain for weeks, I couldn’t walk or stand for days and this is the only positivity I’ve heard yet. Thank you so much

[@ShimSpineVideos]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/lYC6c2tqrLFrnac

[@pinoypridehighlights8593]

@@ShimSpineVideos hi ive been feeling neck pains for abt 3 yrs now. The first 2 yrs has been tolerable for me, for i am an athlete and i always exercise. But now i quit exercising cause i cant bear it anymore. My nevk gets too stiff and it gets me off my mood. My doctor gave me anti inflammatory and pregabalin. And i just finished my medications with it, its not that painful anymore. But the discomfort that ive felt is still there. What to do???

[@ShimSpineVideos]

@@pinoypridehighlights8593 I am glad you had an evaluation by a doctor. If there is no concerns from you doctor, a slow return to exercise is always good. It is a gradual two steps forward, one step back process. Do not be too discouraged by the step back.

[@ronakrathod8487]

Same brother

[@DrezdanyWildlife]

Me too! Going on 6 weeks now. I have to use crutches when I have to walk longer. I can’t wait until this is over. It’s been 3 weeks of 24/7 pain, it was unbearable. I’m doing physical therapy, acupuncture, cupping, tens unit, icing.

[@Flokiabob311]

3 things I can suggest that have always helped my back repair itself from pain: 1. Get a neck and back massager. The kind you put your arms thru in the sleeves. 2. Stretch. Stretch when you wake up. Stretch before you go to bed. Stretch before you exercise and even when you’re bored. Stretch, stretch, stretch. 3. Ice. NEVER use heat if it is swollen or inflamed. Ice within the first 2-3 days, then heat the swelling has down. 4.EXERCISE! Work out! Walk! Run! Strengthen your back! The stronger it is the less likely it will be hurt. 5. Last but certainly not least. Eat right. Lay off the junk food, sugar, and flour. Stay away from ooey gooey cheese. As good as it is. NO SODA. And always WATER, WATER, WATER!

[@wawanlapandua]

Its 5

[@tuannguyen-yt8ty]

Thank you

[@zuhardi]

what? run? dude people had this cant even walk properly..

[@Flokiabob311]

@@zuhardi well with that attitude of course they can’t

[@zuhardi]

@@Flokiabob311 sorry bro.. i had this 2 times and this is my 2nd time i cant even walk properly. standing only last 30 sec. doc and physical therapy told me i have to walk but never run and jumping. herniated on s1 and today is 5 months had it still in pain

[@ReelGuyTv]

Suffered this shit for two years in my 20s. Had two disc herniations. One pressing on the sciatica and the other pressing on the s1 nerve root. The commentator is correct. Don't underestimate the healing powers of the body. If the surgery goes wrong there may be no coming back from it. Avoid surgery even though the pain is unreal. My pain was constant. It suffered standing, sitting, lying down and sleeping. It never went away until it finally did. Once it did I discovered barbell training. Of all things in the world that's what kept it away. Now squatting 240lbs easily. 300lb deadlifts. To think at one time 15 years ago I was barely able to tie my shoes. It will go away.

[@frankdatankallday4745]

Hey man my situation sounds just like yours. 7 months in and me leg numbess is my biggest issue. Back pain not too bad. How long does it take???

[@cassiedoyle2453]

Thanks I really needed to hear this, my sanity is slipping because I can't handle being in constant pain, I'm 29 and feeling like this is the end, I have a son so I'm trying to be strong but I feel like a burden to my family, can't sleep most nights now I'm on medications which I hate, it helps hearing that it can get better, I only have one and it is hell.

[@ReelGuyTv]

@@cassiedoyle2453it's hell. I'll never forget it. just be mobile. Walk everyday. Crunches. Leg raises. Superman holds on your stomach. Going into extension with a large medicine ball. Doing body weight squats. Obviously you don't want to go deep with squat or the extensions. just listen to your body. Let the pain guide you. Some days you'll do better than others. It will go away.

[@cassiedoyle2453]

@@ReelGuyTv Thanks, at the moment my left shoulder is going stiff, I think I might of done muscle damage too, my herniated disc is 3mm x 6mm in the thoracic spine upper back t6-t7 and I don't have much core strength so I'm not sure what excercises are good for that, I was told not to bend, I'm feeling very weak, thankyou for your advice 🙏 thankyou for giving me hope, I hope I am strong enough mentally to make it to better times its been about 3 months and I just want to be myself again

[@simonshotter8960]

Stop the deadlifts. Absolutely no need for such a risky exercise

[@vidyajayram]

A doctor affirming surgery is not needed is a breath of fresh air! Thank you

[@Jeff-S-Grimes]

well kinda of, he said there are instances where one could require medical intervention ASAP which in a case where it is so severe you can't avoid surgery. Not all spine surgeries are avoidable but most are, it seems

[@smith2186]

Hi Vidya how are you feeling now?

[@Meep-ei2qu]

For any new people dealing with this, I ’ve dealt with this twice and it healed both times so don’t worry the pain is only temporary even if it doesn’t feel like it. My main advice is to be cautious of how you move shortly after it’s healed cause it can be really easy for the pain to come back and I’m now dealing with it a third time because of it 😭 so don’t push yourself too much even when the pain is gone. Hope everyone gets their healing soon!! :D

[@gurota1786]

I had hope because of this message, iv dealt with mine months ago and doing it again now.. did you do injections? Im just doing pt again, u gave me a positive vibe thanks again

[@meredithfox5477]

Thank you for this!!! It gives me hope! Im going on week 4 of pain and nerve compression from herniated C7. Im a registered nurse and was hurt at work. I just want to get back to helping my patients!!!

[@joemomma707]

@@meredithfox5477 how you feeling?! I’m also an RN. Just got hurt on the job as well Mine is L4 L5 disk bulge I can’t even sit or lay down without pain!!!

[@meredithfox5477]

@@joemomma707 it has been 1 month since my injury. I am slowly improving. Definitely not as painful as it was in the first week but I am being very careful and taking physical therapy very seriously. I am resting a lot but also making sure I'm gently moving around so my muscles do not weaken or lock up. I am using a lot of natural anti inflammatory supplement because i had terrible side effects from dexamethasone they put me on and could not tolerate it. I drink plenty of water every day and limit sugar and processed foods. I am trying my best to heal from the inside out.

[@joemomma707]

@@meredithfox5477 nice!! Happy to hear you are doing better. What natural anti inflammatory supplements do you recommend?

[@davidamarquez]

I suffered a herniated disc Christmas weekend 2022. It was debilitating and could hardly walk or get up to watch my kids open their presents but made them wait 😂. MRIs revealed 1 bulge, 1 hernia ruin, and arthritis. It does improve over time but I also did the right chiropractic (soft tissue focused) and physical therapy focused on strengthening the entire core. I feel great! I highly recommend that to everyone. Also learn how to properly lift heavy objects. Stay safe everyone!

[@sahilsheoran8823]

Can it cure for permanent

[@yomaddy]

Unfortunately no​@@sahilsheoran8823

[@hepzlawrence7710]

​@@sahilsheoran8823ive had back pain from disk herniation all my life, some days better than others so yes it if you let the body do what it needs too, but also making it easier for our body by changing the way we move better posture for walking and bending etc, look up disk stacking or spine stacking

[@robs7446]

Currently recovering from this. Herniated disc l4-l5. Pain was unbearable initially and I ended up in emergency as I passed out a couple times. But as this video mentions, handle the pain and let the body do it’s thing. Praying for anyone else who has to experience this as it’s brutal

[@mainsamay7300]

Currently recovering from disc bulges at l4l5s1. Pain in whole left leg while standing for 15 mins, sitting for 10 mins and walking for 30 mins. Eventually numbness at beneath the left feet. When i am lying on bed the pain starts disappearing. I had disc herniation 11 years back when i fell on my back while playing football. Suffered the pain for atleast 2 years and slowly with medication and physiotherapy i was well off with just 20% pain. After atleast 5 years my pain went back to 5%. I played football but my left leg did not have strength as before. I had sex many times but was always cautious about my disc problem. I was afraid that i might not be able to impregnate but i have a healthy baby now. I used to smoke daily, i did alcohol abuse on many occassions and worked hard on my sitting job for many hours at office. I am now around 33 years old. Just as i regret i did not get good physiotherapists to tell me that spinal problems are not incurable or that operation is must. Similarly i regret even today there are a lot of physicians who do not have clue on how to tackle slip disc and medical science has not yet found a permanent solution to this problem.

[@shaquilletrumata3133]

how long did it take to heal?

[@robs7446]

@@shaquilletrumata3133 took me 3 months, it can take upto 6 months to heal though. Weirdly I just lost my limp overnight then had to teach myself how to walk normally again. Can’t recommend these exercises enough, stick with it

[@bidhanhajong9246]

Brother i hv been suffering from lymbor spondylosis from the last 5 months... I don't know what to do . The pain is unbearable. I did multiple check up but it's not working

[@MilanKDas]

Did you take any therapy to heal it ?

[@imjustmethatsall]

I’ve experienced 2x severe herniated discs in 2 years (couldn’t walk, couldn’t shuffle in bed, etc.). In both, I could walk assisted by 2 weeks, and walk without pain after 2-3 months. Swim / cycle within 5 months. I’ve also had two smaller flare ups since, with shooting pain down to my foot and unable to lie down to sleep. each one took 6 weeks to heal properly and the back pain got worse (burning after 30 secs of standing) whilst leg pain decreased, before resolving I remember all four times thinking I’d never get better, so I’m leaving this comment to share that it does!! Keep moving to the best of your ability in small increments, and you will get there x (I didn’t have any surgery, turned down injections, went to PT & used pain meds with anti inflam meds)

[@emagee7864]

I was in severe pain from a low back herniation for an entire year. Had sciatica pain down to my foot and weakness in my right leg. One day after a year of suffering, I felt an inch better. I had told my doctors no to surgery. I started to exercise and a few weeks later I was 99% pain free. I have to manage my back health and see a chiropractor regularly. I still have episodes but it's mostly muscle problems. Thanks for giving us hope. Sometimes it feels hopeless when the pain is so persistent for so long.

[@julioarturo4205]

I had . Pain for 15 years. Suddenly disappeared, when I was 35 years old. Now I’m 73. I was in a lot off stress. I’m a surgeon and performed 8 surgeries a week . I quit my job in a public hospital and start working only in private patients. Then I had only one surgery a week. I had time to talk with my patients and to have a life. I started to swim ,to walk and latter to,play tennis. My best wishes to you. Greetings from Mexico city

[@emagee7864]

@@julioarturo4205 Mucho gusto. Tu trabajo era muy estresante. Me alegro de que tengas un estilo de vida activo. Es la única manera de controlar el dolor de espalda. Hola desde San Diego.

[@asadmuhamad5731]

bro please give me something to talk with you

[@emagee7864]

@@asadmuhamad5731 If you are suffering, I know your pain. My pain was the worst I could imagine. Send me your email.

[@asadmuhamad5731]

bro i am 17 years old i have herniated disk and sciatica and it is on my right foot my Doktor tell me to do surgery please give me advice and what exercise you did please help me

[@jeffrylim8338]

I had exact same situation as @Eftee02. First severe disc herniation L4L5 in June 2019. I was totally paralyzed and hospitalized for 4 days. Took me about 1 month to get normal with some pain killers and muscle relaxant and inflammation medications. Then in 2020 due to covid pandemic, I suffered a recurring disc herniation because of bad posture when I had to cook myself. The pain wasnt as paralyzing as 2019 but it sure was more complicated and took way longer to heal. As i tried to avoid hospitals in times of pandemi and from my previous experience with herniated disc, I decided to take a bedrest for 3 weeks thinking it will help the herniated disc to reabsorb. The pain did subside but when I was able to finally stand up, my whole body was feeling weak and I have muscle cramp because of prolonged bedrest and was super painful. It was kinda come and goes and not healing as I expected. I decided to consult doctor despite covid condition. My doctor gave me epidural steroid injection for 3-4x over a period of 3 months and prescribed me some medications. My back did start to get better and the pain start to centralised on my lower middle back. It was however still hard for me to carry out my daily activities, I had difficulties standing up or sitting down for too long, not to mention walk. But I did force myself to stand up, do stretchings, walk bit by bit everyday to recover my muscle strength and continue to take painkiller / muscle relaxant that my doctor prescribed to me and go for routine physiotherapy about twice a week. At this point, I faced a condition whereby i will feel pain when i sit down for too long, or when i tried to get up from my seat, my back felt stiff and the lower right part of my back feels stinging pain. Once i straightenned up my posture which took some time like 10-20 secs, then i will feel better. I did not give up. When it wasnt so pain, I would get down to the swimming pool, walk on the pool forward and backward and sideways. Then i also start swimming breast stroke, the kicking motion helps to pull and stretch my entire back and when you get up to gasp for air, the posture is almost similar to mckenzie cobra posture which helps to relieve my pain by a LOT. I swim everyday or at least 5x a week. As this video and eftee02 said, the most important thing is I constantly told myself i WILL recover and maintain positive mindset. I tried to do freestyle swim but it makes my back worse so I stick to breaststroke, discipline in doing my stretches, TUCK my tummy in when i walk, maintain upright and sitting posture, and my back starts to feel normal after 7 months and can do most of my daily activities including driving etc! Now i am doing core strengthening exercises to train my muscle so they will lock the part of my herniated disc area in place when i stand up or sit down to prevent future recurrence. You guys can find loads of such videos in youtube. Well i hope by sharing my story, it helps you guys here to keep fighting and positive spirit and know that you can recover !

[@ShimSpineVideos]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/lYC6c2tqrLFrnac

[@NateVanessa1]

Inspired by your story..will go through this journey(slipped disc L4-L5) with your positive spirit..nothing is impossible.. Thank you to the doctor ShimSpine for encourage patient to be heal in natural way without scaring them with operation/ procedure.

[@ashishranacs]

ौ

[@amyaaron7141]

You sound like me! I went two years looking for the reason behind my pain. There are things like weight training, lower body, that I can't do unless I want to aggravate my L4L4 slipped disc and have a major flair up. Sitting and lying down hurt . I actually bought a cushion made for bed sores . I can lie down, put that under that area and not press on the sciatic nerve.

[@ZdenekZnaly123]

I also swim regularly and breast stroke works really well. I did find crawl hurting my back but I still want to use crawl to stretch the upper body. So I stopped moving my legs when doing crawl and that seems to help a lot.

[@georgewashington687]

I had a massive disc herniation, L4-5 causing me excruciating pain no matter what position my body was in. I could not walk without severe pain, sleep was almost impossible. I went to my ortho who ordered an mri and after seeing the results referred me to a disc surgeon. He was ready to do surgery to fuse and stabilize the vertebrae. I was not ready for surgery...coward. I gave it time and as Dr. Shim stated it gradually improved. I got a second opinion from a very experienced neurosurgeon who did an exam, looked at the mri and said since I was improving, was retired and not needed to get back to work, that he recommended I should give it time. He said the large majority of these herniations heal over time without surgery. That was two years ago, I am pain free but I am cautious when lifting or doing anything that might aggravate my back. I am so pleased I took his advice because I have heard so many horror stories from individuals who underwent spinal surgery. I know there are times when it is necessary but if not an emergency....time is your best friend.

[@PeterSquitieri]

Here’s a anti-horror story. I had surgery for a herniated disk back in 1987 when techniques weren’t nearly as advanced . There was of course quite a bit of initial pain but it resolved over 5 or six weeks and since then (35 years ago) I’ve had no further trouble beyond a twinge or two when the weather is weird. Of course this is just anecdotal evidence but based on my experience I would strongly recommend surgery over what I’ve heard other commenters are suffering

[@ch1214ch]

Why would the dehydration process cause the disc to bulge? @3:12

[@Polo-Swag]

I've recovered from 3 herniated disc, periformas syndrome, and a hip slip. Solution: - Ice pack only no heat, helps reduce inflammation. ‐ Inversion table, decompresses the spine to allow disc to heal. Go easy, you don't need to be upside down to improve. - Dr./ Chiropractor, alignment and stretching only. Make sure they are good. - Magnesium, Fish Oil, Zinc for pain it works. - As you get better exercise to strengthen those areas. I pray you get better soon. This is what I did. No meds, no surgery.

[@avinhussein7381]

Hi.Havd you had numbness all over your body?have you lost your control on urine and all that erea?

[@bigtony6]

May I ask you daily treatment routine please.? I've been using a hot water bottle without success. I am going to try inversion table with ice packs instead.

[@reycesarcarino4653]

What about massage

[@serrasullivan3028]

Did it all no luck. Literally broke down crying in my kitchen today bc I'm TIRED of being in pain and not able to do what I love. It's making me a cranky bitch too. Also- chiropractors area JOKE. Waste of your money and time. Better off seeing a PT. I spent THOUSANDS on many different chiros...it's all bull shit.

[@reycesarcarino4653]

@@serrasullivan3028 how did you hurt your back

[@Oscar0057]

this is one of the best videos on herniated disc.

[@laurielawson8767]

It absolutely was only two days ago since I applied this back pain, 4BackPainExercise.blogspot.com but it already made some difference. This is a strongly suggested option to help keep lower back pain from recurring. As I had thought, it fulfilled my expectation. I`ve only tried it a few times but appears to do what it`s meant to..

[@amajelo]

Sounds nice but it's not true. My bulging discs after two years of physical therapy and posture change, have gotten worse to herniated disc in 4 places of my cervical spine- giving me headaches and dizziness all the time.

[@robottron7289]

@@amajelo wow!! Did you get an MRI? What did your surgeon suggested?

[@michaelmenes]

It is! 18 months ago I had a whopping 11 mm protrusion. It’s healed. Not easy.

[@robottron7289]

@@michaelmenes lucky you. I had a sequestration.

[@bubbajoe745]

I want to give hope and advice, I was in severe pain after herniated l3/l4, (do not recommend heavy deadlifts) the best thing you could do is not agitate the back! Go easy on it, tolerate the pain and be patient and smart, do not lift heavy things while it's herniated. I had pain for about 2 years and 4 years later I can say I am all the way pain free, no surgery or anything. You can do this!

[@ionutpreda1979]

Butv2 years is too much :-((((((cant stand anymoore 6 months already of exvruciating pain and anty inflamatories and meds ans nothin

[@antonio_espn4678]

I’m scared to death for my mom. She has worked hard and now retiring. Praying to God her body can heal by itself. I hope it heals her. The pain medication did not work, but now it is kicking in. She has multiple herniated discs. 💔Pleaee God and everyone here I feel your emotional pain. May you all heal also. 🙏

[@254shorttrendystories4]

How is she now? I have same diagnosis too😢

[@antonio_espn4678]

@@254shorttrendystories4 she was only able to get one hernia removed the only one that was causing her pain. She retired and is doing better though. Slow therapy and swimming pool therapy should help to strengthen her body. Thanks for asking. Hope all is well. There is time and you will heal as well.

[@Kal-EL_Volta]

Is your mom overweight? Was she physically active before the herniations?

[@felipesamano8060]

I wanted to cry after watching this

[@MSquareDanceVideos1]

Domt worry. Got a Slipped disc diagnosed three days ago. M not worried. U shouldnt be. Give it few years. will be gone completely

[@TrainEnthusiast]

Patience is vital here

[@Imtheman-df4zd]

@@stealth1711 its been a month for me now been doing Physical therapy twice a week gettin better and my Numbness is slowly going away.. but damn I know your pain😢😭

[@Imtheman-df4zd]

@@stealth1711 tons of Core Strengthening

[@crystalblue4303]

I had a minor herniation a few years ago as a result of rough exercising after a long inactive period. The pain was on my left side, but it was rare and manageable. Unfortunately though back in september I fell straight on my butt and the nightmare began. I experienced excruciating pain for three months straight, on my right side weirdly enough. But with some painkillers and a little patience, it started getting better. Now the pain on the right side completely disappeared, but the old one on the left side is back again and it is REALLY testing me. It goes away for some time then comes back again. I'm choosing to remain patient and give it time. I hope it won't get worse. Lower back pain/sciatica really sucks! Not to be dramatic or anything but they kinda ruin ur life :/ oh well, hope we all get better

[@Th0ughtf0rce]

Appreciate this kind of advice very much. "If you can bear with it, bear with it". Where the medical industry is getting increasingly predatory, it's hard to get an honest expert opinion. Quite often surgery is the first thing suggested.

[@ShimSpineVideos]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/lYC6c2tqrLFrnac

[@eynar14649]

@@ShimSpineVideos I have a 4-mm cervical disc herniation. And I've had ringing in the head since the day my herniatated disc symtoms started. Could this ringing be connected with the herniated disc pressing on the spinal cord?

[@johnnyrodriguez276]

@@eynar14649 Bro I got 3 2.5 mm herniated discs and canal stenosis 😢 with you

[@eynar14649]

@@johnnyrodriguez276 I feel you, bro. Be patient. Have you tried laser therapy? It is said to cause the herniated material to shrink back

[@johnnyrodriguez276]

@@eynar14649 Thank you for your advice! I will search for that I really wish this shrinks it back im going Google that rn thank you bro God bless you

[@angelinalicciardello954]

Thank you so much for this video and spreading positive reinforcement. I am currently suffering with a herniated L5S1 disc that’s pushing on my nerves. It has caused extreme pain in my right leg and foot drop. I’m trying my best to recovery without surgery. It’s been 1.5 months so far and I’m slowly improving. I am walking again and the pain went from an excruciating 10 to a tolerable 3 most days. I am determined to let my body heal. It’s hard to find positive outcomes online but I am keeping hope alive. I’m 34 and I will not let this ruin me.

[@fabulous5068]

I feel your pain honey same with me the last few weeks have been awful but I am feeling a little better and have hope that this will heal and I can get back to normal . Good luck

[@Expert_Advice]

Howz u now?

[@immortal2534]

I'm exactly at the same phase with you right now with the exception that is my left foot in pain. Also 34 and 1 mont dealing with it. Exercise, when you walk or sit get your spinal cord in a right position and loose weight, those helped me a lot and i feel better, I'm optimistic that soon I will feel no pain at all

[@angelinalicciardello954]

@@Expert_Advice . I am doing much better. I’ve done a lot of acupuncture, inversion table and I also read a book called “healing back pain” by John Sarno, that book has helped a lot. My pain is now at a 1 most days and I’m finally not thinking about it all day long. I’m also able to work again. I have success with my foot as well , I’m able to pull it upwards now almost totally where as before it wouldn’t move at all. We can heal!! It’s been since October 31st that I was in the ER and couldn’t move or stop screaming, now I’m almost back to living a normal life. I’m still cautious of how I sit and how I move but I’m feeling grateful I’ve seen so much progress.

[@Expert_Advice]

@@angelinalicciardello954 good ...happy for u....god bless

[@victoriac401]

I’ve had a bad herniation at L4/L5 for 6 years, excruciating pain ever since, and have now lost the ability to walk, sit, and do pretty much anything other than be on bed rest - and even lying in bed is agony. Saw various doctors, chiropractors, physiotherapists; did stretching and targeted exercises; iced the area; walked a lot to stimulate blood flow; had a very healthy diet; even got my mind right to try to influence the body in a positive way. Had to come to terms with the fact that some cases are exceptions and need further intervention. Finally getting surgery soon because I’m at my breaking point. I’m so happy to see the comments here that show so many people had herniations that eventually healed - just how it should be. But for those suffering for years and years who have tried everything with no results, and with the situation only getting worse, please don’t be hard on yourself and get the additional help you need. ♥️

[@vinodmehra188]

I pray that you get well soon.

[@victoriac401]

@@vinodmehra188 thank you so much! Stay well ♥

[@hadesoo8560]

I’m laying on the floor at work right 🥺... trying to let it relax before I start moving... couldn’t even drive here without feeling pain... hope y’all get better!!

[@83yomomma]

I hear you though. It is so painful

[@aonoymousandy7467]

Any update on the pain?

[@greaterthings5652]

Funny im laying at work too its funny cause when i hear someone coming i get up to fast and im holding back the look of excruciating pain from my face.

[@danielvulpe4530]

Im having my surgery done in the morning. Can t handle the pain on the left leg anymore. Wishing y'all good health

[@Dylanesque]

@@danielvulpe4530 How did the surgery go, Dan? I'm 39 days in of being deprived of a natural life and peaceful sleep and my recent MRI shows a disc pressing on the S1 nerve. Never known pain like it and was ready to cut my own leg off at the hip.

[@maddiec5341]

You are the only honest surgeon I have encountered. I have had my life distroyed and my health compromised by doctors with no integrity or common sense. You have both in abundance. Please sing your message VERY LOUDLY, as an immunologist you make sense to me. Thank you

[@pandnh4]

What an inordinately helpful and caring comments section. Just wonderful messages.

[@rail4616]

Thank u doctor. This is the first positive and encouraging review I've come across regarding disc herniation.most doctors just traumatise patients n push them towards surgery.

[@Jedi_James]

If one were to rate a video to be perfect, this would be the example. Thank you for this.

[@hur000]

This is so amazing He explained it so simply I was so worried I feel relieved Thankyou so much ❣️🥺

[@bengt_axle]

For a guy who does spine surgery, this is actually quite an honest explanation of a phenomenon that occurs quite frequently, but that is rarely explained in such detail. I waited 4 years before getting surgery for a disk herniation. Did it work? No. Ended up with an artificial disk, which can have its own problems after 10-15 years.

[@meraj0107]

Did artificial disc totally give you relief from pain ? And what kind of surgery did you first have ?

[@bengt_axle]

@@meraj0107 First had microdiskectomy (open). The ADR result was very good to excellent. It turned back the clock 10 years. I had it at L5-S1 (Medtronic Maverick). But things can go wrong if the disk is not placed properly, it shifts or there is too much osteoarthritis to begin with. It has now been reported that some people develop osteoarthritis at the facet joints because the disk provides too much movement. ADR is good for DDD, but many people have other bone-related problems for which fusion and decompression is the only option. ADR does not replace fusion. Tiger Woods, Peyton Manning and Elon Musk all had fusions even though they could afford ADR.

[@jakapuchino]

This clip is just what i needed to hear right now as I’m on month 4 and recovery is very very slow, i can and am tolerating the sciatic pain but it can be very depressing so thank you for this positive clip. I needed to hear it .

[@stephanielafferty7078]

Hey how are you doing now?

[@Vengeance0117]

How are you feeling now, did you heal?

[@mohammadalsaleh3851]

Thank you Dr !!! I just got the disk herniation and watched a bunch of other videos about this. this is the most comprehensive well illustrated one I have come across

[@xxsps]

مرحبا اخي كيف اصبحت صحتك الان اتمنى ان توضح لي

[@gauravfoodmania3366]

How are u now

[@RAZR_Channel]

This is incredible! Thank you so much Dr. Shim for sharing this education! I have lived with spine pain for over 20 years and in all that time the doctors insist that discs do not heal (their agenda has always been to push me into surgery). I'm old now... and I finally understand why older people don't trust doctors.

[@fuh25]

Please can you answer me how you lived with disc herniation and what degree of herniation, mine is severe and doctor advise me surgery

[@ńatiq-edit3]

You deserve kudos for explaining it the way that even a common man can get the sense, great! 👍👍

[@tungduong3721]

After utilizing this plan, my sciatica pain has been cured. Find out more about this particular back ache guidebook by hunt for BackPainRelief9.blogspot.com This has allowed me personally to sleep comfortably in numerous positions. Now I feel relaxed with my hip pain already eliminated. .

[@mylesraucher1195]

Thank you Doctor. 😊 your explanation is so reassuring even though I am in pain. I pray for everyone here to heal.

[@amandeepsingh6232]

Praying for everyone watching this vedio that our bodies heal itself I m also in same conditions 🙏🙏

[@SilverICG]

I was here in this video 2 years ago, and now, after a process I feel better and my herniated disk gets better and now I wishing to start again to training and rebuild strength on my back. Please believe in your body and your Doctor if he says you will get better soon. I know the physical therapy will be hard and painful but trust me you will get better. For me was 2 years after that horrible pain and fear 😔. Be strong, and be great with your family, they can not imagine how much you feel pain, and they don’t have the fault. 😁 my best wishes to everyone.

[@fireuser691]

What's your routine ?

[@Artwithnam]

Hey what did u do to heal? I'm 22 having neck pain

[@GATEbelowranker]

@@Artwithnam I am 22 and I have back pain hopefully it's getting better with tinglingsness in my feet. I was planning to open a group where young people like us suffering from this disc problem can come together and share there stories.

[@Artwithnam]

@@GATEbelowranker yup do make a group as I'm sure this problem has increased a lot these days. Bdw Where r u from?

[@GATEbelowranker]

@@Artwithnam WB, India

[@ettoo]

That was a great video. The video and explanation were very understandable. I had the concepts down before, but now I know why. A couple years ago I had a bad herniation between L4 & L5, pressing on the sciatic nerve; I couldn't walk or sleep anywhere but on the floor. As the doctor said, in about eight weeks I was as good as new. I did go to physical therapy, to learn to walk thru all of it and to speed the recovery, but no surgery and no medicine.

[@sunitakhaitan]

What was the extent of herniation? Was it a bulge or had it extruded?

[@kwan9687]

What do you do during this 8 weeks?🙏🏻

[@joecastro23]

HEY HOW MANY MM?

[@internettroll7604]

I know this video is 3 years old but strikes a chord and explains what happened to me. I had a c5 c6 herniated disk back in 2015 at age 45. First doctor i saw immediately wanted to do surgery. I declined and got a 2nd opinion. He recommended therapy. It got better after about 2 months. Over the next couple of years I had some painful flare ups but it would get better. Then I lost 70 lbs and started lifting weights. I think this combo has made a tremendous increase in my quality of life as far as the herniated disk goes. (Knock on wood)

[@SD-co9xe]

My husband had the same experience. Lifting weights and exercise have alleviated the issues.

[@Echizadel]

Hi, what therapy do you fallow please.I have the same.Almost two monts of pain

[@internettroll7604]

@@Echizadel The first time I had the pain I mainly did a lot of chin tucks, Neck extensions and Upper Trapezius Stretches. I would do them sitting at home, at red lights, sitting at work. You can look them up and other exercises online. More than anything else I think muscle training (light weight lifting) my whole body including my back is what has helped more than anything else long term. The muscles offer support so that my ligaments and such don’t have to do as much. I’m not muscle training to get big or super strong, just fitness. I have not had a flare up in over 4 years which is when I started the muscle training. (Knock on wood) I hope your pain goes away soon. Good luck

[@Echizadel]

@@internettroll7604 Thank you so much for the advice.I also think movement is the key.

[@musegaya]

I feel healthy and better after hearing this!

[@avb1301]

I feel so relieved after seeing this video. Thank you. 🌺 I hope all other people having pain now get relieved asap.

[@God.Almighty]

for me this was a super edifying video. for years i'd wondered what happens to the leaked out material. googling wasn't helping either. most results were just info about what herniation is and how to treat. finally this dude explained it. thanks.

[@ashrayiinavarathnaram4099]

Oh my god, thanks a million doc! Your words were so enlightening and positive. I suffer from disc herniation at 3 different levels and am in a lot of pain most of the time requiring pain meds, B12 supplements and bedrest. I am unable to drive or ride my vehicle or sit or stand. The spine surgeon has advised immediate surgery but got a second opinion from my BIL who is an orthopedic surgeon himself and he did advice lifestyle changes and weight reduction would help in setting right the condition. Now hearing the same advice from you I am convinced that I can allow my body to heal and not risk a spine surgery. I have good control over bowel and bladder except for some slight tingling and numbness on my left. Thanks for your video 🙏

[@aakashshrestha1682]

How you feelin right now sir

[@ritaf.8039]

Dear Dr. Shim, thank you for your explanation, but more than that, for giving us hope. Several weeks ago, my husband has been diagnozed with herniated disc at L5 S1 and barely even can walk. We were so glad that we found your videos. It gave us hope and changed our mindset. After several weeks, we're so thankful that he started getting better and now he is not in pain anymore. Thank you so much Dr. Shim, if only there were more doctors like you. For others who experienced the same, our thought and prayers with you.

[@goukhongsai3796]

How's your husband now

[@johnbr59]

Yes the symptoms will get better but discs do not spontaneously heal as this guy suggests. A disc injury is permanent in nature. That doesn't mean you need to despair - disc degeneration, bulging and herniation will happen to pretty much everyone eventually. It just means you have to be realistic

[@ritaf.8039]

@@goukhongsai3796 He's not in pain anymore and can get back to his daily activities. Walking really helps alot

[@Maggieokeefevideo]

@@ritaf.8039does he have sciatica is he fully healed? All best

[@amyaaron7141]

Awesome. I like to know the exact reason behind my pain. Most physicians don't bother explaining because they assume the patient won't understand any medical terminology. This Dr is great. I really have to listen because he's not dumbing it down.

[@ShimSpineVideos]

Thank you for your kind words.

[@OriginalAzaeal]

I had mine twice in a year with the second one knocking me out of commission and on a couch with one leg up for 4 months. I had to go to the doctor to renew my disability, it took two shots of Demerol and 40 minutes in order for me to be able to speak just for moving to get to the doctor. When I got back home stepping up to go into the house it felt like my leg had popped out of this socket. I spent the next 6 hours laying on a ceramic floor 2 of which was in pain. The next morning I woke up and had no pain and was able to move but I didn't push it. It took about 10 years to heal to where I didn't have to worry too much about how I moved but I still pay attention. I'm pretty sure once I get into my '70s I'll be screwed but I'm happy to be able to move at least. Good luck with your journey.

[@Terminatorfan-2016]

This guy has a relaxing voice in my opinion. I feel like it's good to have a relaxing voice when talking about something painful lol.

[@briancrumpacker]

I caught a refrigerator in 2003 and herniated L4/L5S1 - after stupidly following the suggestions of the worker's comp industry, I wasn't getting better for the first year or two (while they made money off my case). I refused disc removal and fusion per their heartless financial flow charts. Once I ejected myself from them and began riding my bicycle again, everything healed back up completely. Start slowly. Drugs aren't the answer. Posture and proper mechanics are. Stay in motion, the body wants circulation. Eat healthy. Stay hydrated. Have patience, and give yourself some time. The human body is an amazing self-righting machine.

[@mr.r4907]

So true. I had so much pain i could not stand but i rested for 1 month and then slowly started getting betterm it took me 6 months to recover but avoided surgery. The message given here is so true.

[@GoodlifeInvestor]

God bless you! You are such an awesome individual. This video is gold. I fixed a disk herniation and now I am doing 300lbs deadlifts easy with no pain or sciatica. One thing to note though - the 6 to 8 weeks is quite aggressive I think - its more like 3-6 months or more to remove the disk piece. This is a slow process.

[@vickananda]

Hardly anyone will ever reveal this. Thank you.

[@joecastro23]

I’m two weeks into a 6mm herniated disk at L5-S1 and bulging disk at L4-L5. Incase anyone was wondering since it’s hard to find current data. 25 MALE AUTO TECH 5’10 220lbs FIRST WEEK WAS THE MOST INTENSE PAIN AND MISERABLE, THE PAIN IS VERY INTENSE AND I AM SORRY FOR ANYONE GOING THROUGH THIS. IF YOU HAVENT PLEASE PROTECT YOUR BACK AND LEARN PROPER FORM. Second week a bit more manageable still 7/10 pain but reduced from 9/10 crippling pain I can now move around for 20 min at a time before needed to rest up. No longer stuck on the floor in agonizing pain. Have been on Naproxen which helped the first week but doesn’t seem to be making a difference this second week so I have found that alternating between very warm and ice baths throughout the day have helped tremendously. As well as what you consume to help your body regenerate and rebuild help a lot as well. Will be losing some weight to help take stress of my spine after my recovery as well. Will keep posting updates here weekly so feel free to say what’s up. STAY SAFE GUYS 🙏🏽

[@justinbachand3733]

Update? I’m around the same age, 6ft, 220. 1 week in, at times the pain lets up quite a bit, seems to be more centralized than a few days ago(not as much shooting pain from my back to my leg, now more in my back alone)

[@ionutpreda1979]

Mine is 16/14/15 mm :-(( excruciating pain .I declined surgery

[@joecastro23]

@@justinbachand3733 I bet you’ve started feeling much better by now

[@joecastro23]

@@ionutpreda1979 Dude it took me months to start genuinely feeling better, even now i still get flare ups. ICE BATHS ICE BATHS ICE BATHS very VERY COLD! It’ll be tough but that made night and day difference for me gotta keep it up everyday tho and eat healthier. If you can lose weight that’ll help relieve pain and drink lots of water gotta stay hydrated!

[@ionutpreda1979]

I.m not overweight.I.m 176cm /74 kg ,i eat healthy.but i spend 16-17 hrs daily at work staying up(not sitting at all) every day...i.m starting physio and kinetotherapy on monday ,and they ve also reccomended me Ozonotherapy injections?

[@justynjonn]

I feel SO MUCH BETTER just from this video!

[@brianrios2001]

Brilliant video ! I’m praying everyone here experiencing spinal problems get better !

[@140368kathleen]

Really interesting video. Thank you for the information. Unfortunately I was in the severe group requiring emergency surgery. I had a microdiscectomy 3.5 weeks ago. I was hoping to wait it out. I was on the semi urgent list awaiting surgery for about 2 months. Then had a MRI. As soon as the neurosurgeon saw the MRI scans, he called me and got me straight to hospital for surgery. I am very pleased with the outcome.

[@ShimSpineVideos]

I am glad you are doing better.

[@firstname3873]

​@@ShimSpineVideos Hi Dr what about C4-C6 My disc is compress against my spine so I have numbness and pain, it comes and goes. My neurosurgeon gave me an option to do cervical anterior surgery. Will I have a chance to heal on its own without the surgery?

[@community1949]

I love this video because I went to see a neurosurgeon and he wanted to do surgery right away - I see now that probably isn't necessary. Thank you so much and I am glad I did not cooperate and went for an injection and physical therapy instead.

[@elronyd3511]

I’ve been dealing with a pinched lower back nerve for about 2 weeks now. I wouldn’t wish this on my worst enemy.

[@jge424]

I counted months, did not go surgery but I got the most painful months. I took ALAnerve, MethylB12, Glutaplus from Gr8life with astaxanthin and aronia berry, and apple cider gummies. Took ibuprofen and paracetamol if can't tolerate. It healed after 17 months. The last flare up with so much pain, I took a rest straight for 4 days. Then had to travel by boat. Would it be the boat contributed to the decompression? The gravity. No more right jeans as well. Always wear dress and square pants for blood circulation. Always have lumbar belt when travelling. It's already a month that everything turned back to normal. No more numbness. No more pain. I had PT for three months as well. Prayer. Prayer is powerful, too. Faith. Thank, Doc for this video. I really watched it many times. (Disclaimer: This is just based on my experience on the journey of healing. Always seek medical advice)

[@AncientOne222]

Thanks for this video I have been dealing with C-4 C-5 C-6 left and middle bulge for three years with left side severe arm pain resulting in a rapid heart beat, I know the body can heal itself and I feel much better today since utilizing Chiropractic manipulation, inversion, CBD and most of all positive thoughts I just needed a reminder because when that pain hits logic goes out the door, this video reminded me to stay the course of non surgical recovery.

[@jellodog8615]

Hi my friend, what kind of work you do? Are you able to work??

[@SPEED-7]

I have c4 and c5 cervical neck and nubmness, does doing chiro treatment will help me?

[@AncientOne222]

@@SPEED-7 I am not a Doctor so I can’t say I can however share my personal experience dealing with cervical issues. I found out through me communicating with my body (I am a energy healer) That it’s actually my overly tight trapezius muscles pulling down my upper neck causing the disc compression. I focused on having the proper pillow height ( This changes according to the need of my body) I got deep tissue massages with a focus on releasing muscle knots, I started to properly hydrate my body and I went on Amazon and bought a tens unit so I could work out the knots at home. I ordered a good back brace off of Amazon with metal rods so I could wear it while I work on the computer, and wear while driving , this keeps me from rounding my shoulders and protruding my neck forward and throwing my spine out of alignment. Most of all I reduced my stress. I now feel much better and anytime a muscle knot forms and triggers pain I change my pillow height and apply my tens unit. I focused on the connectivity of my entire body instead of just what the MRI says, often doctors don’t mention how muscles can affect compression of disc. Before I focused on my muscles I experienced numbness, electrical shocks of pain etc. I tried all the traditional methods to alleviate that pain aside from pharmaceutical drugs which I refuse to take however once I focused on the real problem I no longer experienced daily excruciating pain. Oftentimes our muscles are weak because we live non active lifestyles.

[@SPEED-7]

@@AncientOne222 hi sir, thanks for sharing your pesonal recovery method, i just started to sleep with a lower pillow to help easy the pain. My arm, finger and trapezius feel spamzam burning.. got a mri yesterday below are the report, dont really understand medical word term in the report. Azizie Azaman MRI CERVICAL SPINE RADIOLOGIST'S REPORT Service：MRI cervical spine：Sagittal FSE T1 and T2 W scan done。Axial T2 * W scan done at C2-3 to C6-7. Signal intensities of vertebral bodies and endplates appear normal。No evidence of infective or metastatic lesion。 C5-6：R centrolateral disc herniation / osteophyte causing narrowing of theR lateral recess recess。Lesion extent laterally causing narrowing of the exit foramina。May impinge the R C6 nerve root and spinal nerve. C4-5：Small central disc herniation / osteophyte indenting thecal sac only。No nerve root impingement. C3-4：Smaller central disc herniation / osteophyte indenting thecal sac only.No nerve root impingement.Other disc levels are normal.Spinal cord otherwise normal。 IMP：Disc herniation / osteophytes with most significant at C4-5

[@AncientOne222]

@@SPEED-7 It looks like some osteophytes aka bony growth from a lot of load bearing on your neck usually the body tries to fix itself by forming osteophytes aka bone growth. Correct posture, proper hydration (remember disc need water) stop forward head motion and focus on your trapezius muscles being relaxed and you should start to feel better. If the pain gets too much roll a towel up and place it behind your neck and lay there for a moment this creates traction and helps you put the natural curve back in your neck. R C6 may mean your Right side is being affected is that the side you sleep on? Also I am a woman not a man lol

[@PabloDayan]

I’m having the same experience with a cervical herniated disc, a extruded one. I had unbelievable pain in my left arm, but no progressive less of strength and no progressive numbness. I had opioides for 70 days and others drugs to relief the pain, but it the pain was still there. I couldn’t sleep for 30 days, just 3 or 4 hours. One night I slept without pain. I knew that if I could sleep I would overcome this terrible problem. 3 months later I woke up without pain and I had 6 hours of relief. And the pain came back in the next day. 10 days later once more I woke up without pain and I had a great day. The pain come back again. But I realized that my condition was better, my movements were a little better. I was able to wash my hair with both hands. I had important improvement within 4 to 6 months. And I had physiotherapy session once a week, but I did the exercises everyday. I’ve got to tell you people that is almost impossible to have physiotherapy during the inflammatory fase, but I started with slows movements (retraction - mckenzie exercise) and, in time, I was able to increase the volume of exercises and I started to do the retraction and extension of the neck 4 or 5 times a day. I was seeing the neurosurgeon frequently to follow up the situation. The doctor recommended surgery twice because of the pain. Firstly a foraminotomy. Than he recommended an arthroplasty. I declined both. I had the second MRI and the herniation was smaller. Now, in 7th month, i’m still doing exercises (mckenzie method) under a physiotherapist prescription. I can drive again and move my neck. Somtimes I feel pain in my shoulder, but I do the retraction and extension and I can manage the pain. So the episodes are getting rare. The improvement isn’t linear. I could say that is like a roller coster, ups and downs, good and bad days. Sometimes you have a wonderfull week and 3 bad days after that. You have to believe that our body make miracles and it can heal itself. Be patient, resilient, pray, eat healthy food, drink a lot of water and be stronger.

[@johnmitchell2741]

Wow it's a very long painful process and then one wrong move and you have to do it all over again.I know Over 10 years now wash rinse and repeat😅😑🥴

[@jozz2112]

Your condition sounds very similar to mine right now. I understand that joy when I can sleep more than 2-3 hours a time. I have a strange cyst on my wrist, that is sore, and sometimes puts pressure on the ulnar nerve making my ring finger hurt and go numb, especially while trying to sleep. Did you experience anything like this due to the herniation? I ask cause I wonder what the connection may be, and if the cyst is my body trying to help me or if I should remove the cyst or have it drained.

[@ecinaz]

How are you doing now (Jan 2023)? I also have a bad cervical herniation, and am scheduled for acdf one level surgery in Feb. I had the initial herniation 9 months ago. I also had terrible arm pain for the first 4 months, but now have chronic aching.

[@PabloDayan]

@@jozz2112, No I didn’t. How are you right now? Did you get better?

[@mccarthy4718]

Hope you are doing well. Don't forget to research Prolotherapy and PRP rejuvunation injections

[@michaelmenes]

He makes it very clear and that is so important. I’ve been through this and it does heal. Take supplements, don’t smoke and do physical therapy and traction to reduce the pain and as he says, WAIT it out.

[@asankovlogs]

Did you have it

[@joselaynez1579]

What supplements are u taking? Am 43 years old

[@goukhongsai3796]

Which type of disk herniation are you?

[@MrDezzidez]

Brilliant. That was the best explained disc herniation on the Internet. Dude. 🎉

[@Callylily7]

Dr Shim, you have become my favorite online doc. Thank you for some straight talk. A lot of doctors want to operate. I'm getting too old at seventy-four. After two lower back fractures in late 2018, discs in my neck started popping like popcorn. Ouch. It was really bad. I don't have much pain in my neck any longer. However, I can barely walk from hip and lowback pain which..yep...runs all over the place. My feet burn and hurt. Doctors only want to look at certain places of my spine. I feel it all needs a good viewing. Not having much luck finding a doc to do that. One thing. I think our bodies do heal themselves. A bit of knowledge takes us far. Thank you.

[@SudhirBaujee]

You did, for sure, gave me comfort. Your voice along with an authoritative and knowledgeable explanation helped me make my decision right away. Thank You, Dr. Shim. 💪

[@bradkrupsaw]

One of the best videos out there that explains in patient detail the process of the herniated disc and the value of waiting it out.

[@bentrider]

Amazing! No I'm not talking about the fact that the body has its own system for healing. I'm talking about the fact that there is actually a doctor giving us this information!

[@huhu6759]

Dr. Perfect. Your video did me good. I just listened and decided to decompress the discs I started yesterday afternoon and I had immediately results. The pain went away instantly. I kept on decompressing all night and the pain, tingling and numbness,sharp painful burn under my foot, sciatica, piriformis, tingling and pain from my buttocks through my thighs down to my calf and foot all vanished miraculously.... I'm very surprised. The pain I endure for almost a year and a half, disappeared within 20 minutes. This is how I understand the lumbar disc herniation according to what dr showed here...Discs herniate when the are compressed, to get them better why not lift the pressure to correct the bulging? So I quickly began lifting the pressure buy decompressing.. I'm very happy now. I need to keep decompressing for a year or two until I'm completely healed.... Thank u Dr. My mood is really great and my worries are gone now

[@starlite7785]

Are you still pain free ? 🙏🏽 Can you tell me if you ever felt tingling and pain through your pelvic area as well?

[@huhu6759]

@@starlite7785 yes, just normal body now. Pain free...In fact change your diet and exercise carefully incorporate milk everyday...You will see improvement. Check online about good spinal health and how to remove arthritis from spine by changing diet.

[@starlite7785]

@@huhu6759 thankyou for replying happy to hear you are well now gives us hope🙏🏽 will take your advice as well. Did you ever pain tingling and shocks towards your pelvic region as well as pain radiated through buttocks? During a flare up

[@huhu6759]

@@starlite7785 yes I experienced tingling from my thoracic back down my both legs to the soul of my feet. Even when I moved my feet I have very sharp pain as if someone punching under my feet with pin. And I went to French hospital they told me free tingling might be from my waist but I didn't believe so I went to a major hospital for thorough checkup on MRI and it was discovered I had herniated disc at my neck ie cervical spondylosis and lumber herniation... Herniation is easily correctable than bulging disc. The best advice is change your lifestyle, ie always sit upright on a very good chair, maintain good posture when walking bcos most back pains come as a poor posture habit. Hang on monkeybars always to decompress the spine everyday.. Practice good spinal health by eating good food to repair the herniated discs be careful not to do any strenuous exercises..Brisk walking is fine to let the blood flow through the bones and drive nutrients to all parts. As we grow, bones grow with us and begin to allow little movements at joints so blood flow is always instructed so you must form a habit of exercising to move blood through the bones. Eat good food to give good health to your spine or backbone. And last one is guess what! Our beds we sleep on are 90% responsible for back pains. Avoid high pillows,just roll a towel to support your your neck and make your spin fall in alignment with your head when you sleep. Any twist in the bed and mattress or high pillow causes very very severe back pain because it causes a slight curvature in your spine. Do chin tucks,and use towel to pull your neck etc. Live mainly on greens and milk with few supplement. Take lots of vitamin C fruits and supplement to help repair any damage muscles around the spine at the back. Olive oil and omega 3 are very important. Don't always take medication you will kill yourself. Most pain killers leads and trigger other diseases especially kidney and liver. Just omega 3 and extra virgin olive oil. Poor diet cause arthritis and degeneration of the discs so improve your diet. I have made a list of diet to take to ensure good spinal health. Send me email on [e-mail] I send you the list to follow. Avoid spinal surgery..Improve your diet and exercise..You will be fine

[@huhu6759]

@@starlite7785 I can assure you that any problems with your back causes a lot of health issues. Your skull muscles, headaches, tinnitus, toothache,hotness in your arms, tingling and numbness, blurry vision, shaking eyeballs, depression etc . Just make sure you go to hospital often for check up and MRI but don't take medication..Be careful. One thing that also helps is posture correcting belts. It is very cheap here use one to hold and pull your upper region back to keep you upright when you are walking and sitting.

[@whitemorn]

My good friend (RIP), was a sports massage therapist who worked on many professional athletes Including John McEnroe the tennis player. He was able to reconstruct very badly damaged herniated discs via massage techniques. The key was to increase the blood flow to the damaged area because so many times the tightness around the damaged disc creates a swelling causing trapped fluids to prevent the blood from reaching the disc. These macrophages and monocytes are restricted from reaching the site until the blood flow is restored as all healing comes from the blood. So if you are in agony, I would suggest finding a licensed sports massage therapist to help you. You can often find one who will charge $1.00 US per minute and believe me 15 or 20 minutes makes a huge difference but you may need 7 to 10 or more treatments depending on your disc issue.

[@jimkovacs7]

Many times you can self-massage or use pressure points or tapping to achieve these results. May I suggest you check out MOTIVATIONALDOC (Dr. Alan Mandell) on KZbin for some amazing info. Blessings to all (prayer also helps).

[@whitemorn]

@Kurt M. DMSO is great, but increased blood flow is paramount to success ... if your muscles are tight, the DMSO will never get to the stressed area, so we need both therapies in my view.

[@julianfp1952]

Thank you Dr Shim for the clear explanation. I knew about the immune response but I didn't know about the additional effect of dehydration also shrinking the extrusion. I had a severe herniation in 2017, diagnosed via MRI after the onset of acute pain, that took over 3 months to recover from. I was in agony, for most of the time to the extent of not being able to function at all and needing some help with day to day activities. My doctor proscribed various pain killers and anti-inflammatories (and physio but I was in such bad shape that for most of the time they couldn't even get me on the table let alone do any manipulation) and said that we should allow time for the sciatica to resolve itself. Seeing me in such pain (when they visited, I couldn't leave the house even in a wheelchair due to the pain) many of my friends and neighbours kept insisting that I demand surgery. At one point they even mounted an "intervention" with 7 of them in my living room all insisting that I should demand surgery. One of them was even a medical doctor although in fairness he worked in the pharma industry not in a clinical setting. Anyway, I kept faith with my doctor and I recovered. I hope that others going through a similar experience at the moment and being encouraged by their doctor to stick with conservative treatment (which I believe is the medical term for the non-surgical approach) will find this video helpful and maybe even draw a bit of encouragement from my story as well. However debilitating, the pain can go away without surgery.

[@smith2186]

How many months it took for you to get complete pain free?

[@julianfp1952]

@@smith2186 Total time from onset of symptoms through the really bad period then to total recovery with complete relief of pain was about 4.5 months.

[@smith2186]

@@julianfp1952 thanks brother for replying i really appreciate, you really gave me some great hope, it's really a scary injury that a human can get

[@cassiedoyle2453]

Thankyou for sharing this, you have no idea how much you've just helped me today even though you wrote this a year ago, I've been in such pain and it's so constant that I've become so depressed and feel like a burden on my family thankyou I needed to hear things can get better

[@good2btheking]

It’s videos like these which make me love the internet. Very well explained 👏🙏

[@twau2826]

Almost two years ago I was diagnosed with a bulged lower lumbar disc. (From sitting incorrectly long periods of time) I went to the ER with massive numbness in buttocks and genital area. It freaked me out, after a CT scan they saw a bulged disc. I went to see a neurosurgeon and he was baffled that I only had numbness and no pain, he ordered an MRI. He told me, it's a substantial bulge and pressing against your nerves but he said if there is no pain it's hard to justify surgery. Well, with lots of decompression stretching, here I am almost two years later, fully recovered. All I did was a few simple things. Avoided sitting long periods of time, took Vitamin B complex supplements. And my decompress stretches.

[@kevinhunt2112]

I'm in the same boat now. Heard a pop at work last Sunday and by Monday evening complete numbness in lower back right side and side of stomach. Been to the doctors twice and they said to give it a few weeks. Today is day 6 and the numbness is still with me and it's scary! Thanks for the tips..

[@alicanbozbey]

Can you explain a little more what you did? Like how did you decompress

[@twau2826]

@@alicanbozbey With decompressing stretches, very easy to do, and can be found here on youtube.

[@ale58301]

The only Doctor with a news set 😂 love it, keep up the great work John!

[@ShimSpineVideos]

Thanks for the encouragement!

[@KingsDaughter.]

Yes! Love it!

[@TheManosdehueso]

I wish the best for everybody, I know the pain🙏🙏🙏

[@signupisannoying]

I thought this was not a good video because it looks like a goofy news broadcast. But I was wrong; this video has all kinds of great info and isn't trying to sell anything at all. In fact it's encouring you to not pay to fix the issue, if it's not serious enough.

[@kenneday1285]

I herniated my C6-C7 and think this may be the answer to my recovery. I had doctors tell me that, with very little nerve pain, I should get a full disc replacement. I didn't, and now I'm probably 80-90% healed and have mayb 3/7 days a week with no pain at all, it took me almost 2 years after the sports injury that caused it to get here though, not 6-8 weeks. the road is long my friends, but definitely worth it so keep working! my keys for success were purchasing a neck and mid-back exercies program from "The Pre-hab Guys" and "The Iron Neck" and focusing on posture to relieve my tightness and pain and that has increased my mobility and lessened my pain substantially. Good Luck! keep grinding for better days!

[@AlexSaddler]

I had a C6-C7 rupture too. It's officially been 10 months for me now and I'm still battling it. My left shoulder gets really tight and raised, but thankfully I don't have much pain. Did you have the same upper trap tightness? I think I will go back to PT

[@gduran07]

Thank you for sharing your experience. How long did it take for the disc herniation to resolve? I’ve e had pain for 2 months and am having surgery in 2 weeks. My problem with waiting to heal without surgery is FMLA isn’t long enough. Im praying for a miracle.

[@willsedlar]

I have same problem, but what ever I do with my hands (arms) if I lifting them, working even on computer I have pain, burning or like somebody is cutting me with knife slowly 😔

[@mccarthy4718]

Thanks man. I left my comment above. 9.5weeks into this and it has been pure evil pain. THrowing every single conservative treatment at it to avoid another artificial disc!

[@bensmithy4279]

Disc herniations will make your belief in God stronger. Makes you value your body and time on this planet more.

[@omegamanish5093]

Thanks Dr your speech heal me mentally 70% of pain, getting hope mentally is best medicine for body healing process,

[@jaspercruz1023]

It’s just gotten worse for 2 years, I finally got recommended surgery after seeing countless doctors and going to countless physical therapists.

[@juleslondon3088]

Very nicely presented. It’s really not obvious until someone well-qualified points it out that in the majority of cases your body will heal such an apparently serious injury as a disc herniation all by itself in a relatively short time. I injured mine 4-5 months ago training in the gym and while I still get some pain and have some relative weakness and numbness in my left leg, which is still a concern, it doesn’t inhibit me from doing everyday things.

[@alexrossi4464]

Thanks, for this. I got Saitica pain a month ago. Still hurts, but it's slowly getting a bit better. I don't believe in surgery and am not taking pain killers, ( only ( Nsaids). Just exercises, stretches, that I can tolerate.. I eat healthfully. And have modified my upper body, arm workout. Giving my legs, and some of the painful ab exercises a rest, or modified them.. but, yes, this gives me hope the pain will subside soon. .

[@Preeti-lw9jc]

How are you now hope you're doing well ❤️‍🩹

[@pepita1116]

Loved your donut and pac man analogies. It made the entire explanation crystal clear.

[@Alibaba.Logic.Builders]

May Allah Bless and Heal everyone with this ☪️ Ameen

[@ShimSpineVideos]

Thank you.

[@yasminbano4675]

Aameen

[@firdausjebatz874]

Thanks you Amin

[@ShimSpineVideos]

@@firdausjebatz874 Thank you. kzbin.info/www/bejne/lYC6c2tqrLFrnac

[@KA-pq3yz]

🤔🤔!??

[@DragonE11]

Glad ppl sharing their experiences. Gives me hope! Beginning of 2023: herniated disc. @ T3-T5. Worst pain in my life, became paralyzed and passed out. Was in the hospital for 3 days. Now going on my 3rd week of recovery. Walking, standing, sitting upright more. Building my physical tolerance little by little each day.

[@Healer_a2zee]

zafarmahmood170

[@DrSlinkyWW]

I wanted to throw out some encouragement to those struggling with a herniation as well. I had a large L5-S1 herniation in 2017 to the point where I couldn't sit down, constant aching nerve pain all the way into my toes during all waking hours for about a month or two. All the muscles in my right leg would cramp up and be in extreme pain after putting weight on the leg in the morning or when sitting longer than a few minutes. I had originally went into PT with a pulled muscle and disc bulge. The PT had me overdoing some exercises too quickly and ruptured the disc. By the time my surgeon had recommended a microdiscectomy (almost a month after the injury) we had seen some positive signs so elected to wait it out for the non surgical treatment (long term patient satisfaction levels looked about identical at that point.) Things were very touch and go for about a year or two with lots of acupuncture, decompression, chiropractic, etc. Six years later I can work out, go running for several miles at a time, play soccer (careful not to get knocked down.) I stretch every morning and night and am trying to stay as fit as possible. It's a longer road to recovery but less risk adverse versus the surgical options. Also noticed there is a much bigger and better market for non-surgical treatments in the Korea versus the US. Hang in there!!!

[@cryptoharald8273]

How are you

[@erictuozzo4436]

After going to several doctors for my L4-L5 herniation, my best advice is this; - get in the f*cking pool if you have access to one(helps tremendously and fast results) - pick 4-5 stretches that work for you and don’t hurt to do and perform daily. (McKenzie is a miracle stretch) - try and lose 5-10 lbs. walking or biking. - start strength training once the pain starts subsiding and strengthen core muscles (light weights at first). Squats, planks and push-ups are my 3 go to and can be done without weights (no excuses). - eat better. Inflammation caused by food can be prevented. - Read John Sarno book on healing back pain: the mind-body connection - meditate 10-20 minutes daily. I like to focus on forgiveness, as I feel that is where most of my trauma lies. And as much as I hate to say it, stop reading KZbin comments. Unfortunately, most people’s experience with back pain is not pleasant and reading all the negative comments can affect your psyche when faced with this adversity. Listen to the videos, learn what you can, and move on. Stay positive and good luck. You got this!

[@Healer_a2zee]

If you are still having pain. Just arrange session with me on Inatagram.

[@willreed6231]

Stop reading KZbin comments…you hit my right in the spot there mate

[@viper368]

This is a great video - thank you, Doctor! It's a shame that many surgeons seem to always want to operate, discounting the fact that the body can indeed heal on its own. This goes back to an old saying - "surgeons always want to cut" - sad but true.

[@brizzle3903]

I’m glad my doctor said he absolutely no intentions to operate on me, he referred me to a very qualified specialist who can get me feeling better without surgery and I am very relieved

[@JUNAID_KHAN708]

Agree with you

[@frankschannel2642]

When you're a hammer, everything looks like a nail.

[@zepeda2820]

Took me one year to heal Doctor said they wanted to take out my disc and replace it with a titanium one I ran out as quick as I could and found your video 1 year later still in recovery taking it slow but no more pain. 🙏 Best of luck The pain and depression was horrible.

[@tannazzal]

Thank you so much for this Doc. It means a lot to many of us suffering for disc herniation and losing hope. Kindly post exercises one can do to improve the quality of life

[@kaycee1185]

I have to say this makes sense, I was injured 1.5 years ago pain went away after about 2 months. Fast forward to now and it's back with a vengeance however, it's been almost two months again and I am noticing a marked improvement. I do think one day the disks in my neck (C5-C7) will need to be replaced or fused but for now I have some hope.

[@wayofthekodiak3118]

It came back?☹️

[@davidphillips5528]

Good Question...I have the same question as well as I lie in bed and wonder if I should use ice or heat...or a combo of both

[@HumblePerspective]

This is 100% true, I'm 4 months in and last week all the pain went away. I gave myself plenty of time to heal and it worked, trust the process, do therapy, take the proper medication, and in time it will get better.

[@Acts-1322]

Only if you don't go back to the old eats like bad body mechanics or funky sleeping positions. Also proper strength training is imperative

[@frezer2043]

, take the proper medication?

[@firebird77clonefirebird89]

The absolute best explanation and cgi illustration i have seen.

[@ShaniTheBurningTree]

He’s right. Don’t keep feeding yourself the idea you are going to deal with pain forever. I had so many issues from herniated disk to fibromyalgia, to depression and hip dysplasia. Not to mention issues with my feet I was born with. A lot of of odd stacked against me. Once I decided I was tired of the shyt, I started working out, drinking lots of water, and eventually things improved. I’m not completely healed yet, but day by day, I get better. I go where the pain is and I address it. Where attention goes, energy flows. Try blessing of the energy centers by joe dispenza and do it as much as possible. Drink water and move as much as is comfortable, increasing bit by bit until you find yourself free from your own body.

[@shukracharya_]

How are you doing friend?

[@greenearth4ever]

The explaination is so clear and informative. Thanks a lot doctor!

[@VigilanteMan32]

I had a herniated disc in my lower back about 20 years ago. Sciatica pain for about a year was taking its toll physically and mentally. I even met with a back surgeon regarding a possible surgery! I am so happy now that I decided against back surgery and went with an inversion table instead. This video is accurate. If anyone reads this please only get a surgery as a LAST RESORT.

[@bossup4165]

Thank you sir 🙏🏾 this gave me hope

[@the1bulldurham]

Been patiently waiting for 41 years. Should be any day, now.

[@TrishCanyon8]

Thank you Sir. We need to follow natural remedies and self healing techniques as much as humanly possible. I'm healing my hip with diet and exercise instead of surgery. It's getting better and there's no more pain. Hopefully I won't ever need a hip replacement.