Does the body resorb a hnp without surgery? - Spinal Cord Disorders Message Board

starrfish · 05-25-2004, 02:17 PM

I had posted regarding a cervical hnp at c5-6. I was just wondering...what happens to the contents of the ruptured disc w/o surgery. Does the body repair the disc and absorb the contents? I was just wondering since I am starting pt soon. Anyone know? Thanks!

jbabbit · 05-25-2004, 03:51 PM

I think it can. In my case I have waited 7 months for it to get better and reabsorb but it didn't happen. I am scheduled for ACDF on June 4th for C5 C6....

05-25-2004, 11:52 PM

Usly it does not and surgery is requried. Every one that I spoke to that has had it done feels 100% better afterward!
B

starrfish · 05-28-2004, 03:13 PM

Thanks for the input. That is exactly what my PCP says...it will not repair and will only degenerate more and surgery is almost inevitable (I have a c5-6 hnp). I have been ordered a short course of PT, which start on Wed. I have been having more numbness at night....my whole arm goes numb. I called the Nuero just now, since they said to call if it gets worse. His nurse said that was a definite sign there is more nerve damage, but she still suggest trying PT once or twice and then if it is no better, they will get me in to discuss surgery. Ugh.....

Deb F · 05-31-2004, 04:52 PM

Hi -
Per my 1st NS and PT it can reabsorb. Not too often, but it can happen. Sounded like it depends on your age, health of your vertebrae, and discs. I have waited 10 months and so far both MRI's show the same thing. However, I had a healthy neck except for the herniation at c6-7 caused by a MVA. So we felt that waiting and trying conservative measures first was reasonable. Good luck whatever your outcome.
Deb F.