Annular Tears Treatment | Charleston SC

ANNULAR TEARS TREATMENT & RELIEF

The first conservative attempts to treat an annular tear are typically through non-surgical techniques that are designed to heal the damaged intervertebral disc in addition to alleviating any discomfort. Once your doctor has identified the damaged disc and has diagnosed an annular tear, the doctor will work with you to cultivate an appropriate treatment plan for repair.

Patients of all ages are affected by this condition, which is also called disc herniation. Causes for annular tears range anywhere from a traumatic injury to general wear and tear along with natural spin deterioration. Treatment options for a disc tear will be tailored to your age, your level of physical activity, and your overall health.

TREATMENT FOR AN ANNULAR TEAR

Assuming that you’re not experiencing debilitating symptoms, annular tear treatment will usually begin with hot or cold compresses, OTC pain medication (or prescribed), low-impact exercise, rest, and at times other alternative therapies. Alternative treatment options can include:

  • Pain Patches
  • Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation
  • Ultrasound treatment
  • Hydrotherapy
  • Spine alignment correction
  • Deep tissue massage
  • Epidural injections

SURGICAL TREATMENT FOR ANNULAR TEARS

In many cases, patients are able to attain enough relief with the targeted non-surgical treatments over time. However, if the discomfort or pain continues and seems unresponsive to non-surgical treatment, your doctor may recommend a more advanced option which may include spine surgery to alleviate the pain once and for all.

MINIMALLY INVASIVE SURGERY FOR ANNULAR TEARS

If conservative treatments have not helped your annular tear, a more extensive pathology that requires surgery may be necessary. Bear in mind that there are minimally invasive options to open spine surgery. The Non-Surgical Spine Center in Charleston, SC offers various outpatient procedures that will help you find relief from your neck and back pain.

If you would like more information on annular tears or would like to find out if you’re a good candidate for one of our various procedures, contact us today for a consultation.

WE CAN GET YOU BACK TO YOUR BEST SELF

Non-Surgical Spine Center is home to the foremost leading back pain specialists in the Charleston, South Carolina area. Dr. Robert Alexander combines a variety of treatment techniques to help you maintain a healthy spine. When you come to the Non-Surgical Spine Center, we initially perform a thorough evaluation for each injury and condition you are struggling with to make sure we understand the cause of your pain and how it is impacting your lifestyle.

WORKING WITH INSURANCE

Non-Surgical Spine Center works with many local insurance companies. We will be happy to call your insurance company to verify your insurance benefits prior to your initial treatment. Please call our office for more information!