How to Treat a Bulging Disk in the Neck

As we age the bones in our neck and back begin to degenerate but a bulging disk can occur at any time. If you have a bulging disk in the neck and are experiencing pain, it's probably time to treat it. A conservative approach is the best way to go at first, but if pain persists, surgery is always an alternative.

Instructions

• 1

  Relax. Good old fashioned best rest just like the doctor ordered is worth a try and could be all that is needed. Take a day to rest your neck on a comfortable pillow and see how you feel in the morning.

• 2

  Exercise by doing gentle stretches. The key word here to treat a bulging disk is, gentle. Overdoing any exercise will likely cause increased pain and possible further damage to the neck.

• 3

  Incorporate heat or ice to your method of treatment. Speak with your doctor or physical therapist to see which one would be more effective for your particular condition.

• 4

  Get a massage. Relax all those muscles in the neck and back to help you feel better. A bulging disk can be painful and could cause poor posture leading to strained muscles

• 5

  Purchase a device to ease your discomfort. A brace might help to relieve some of pain associated with a bulging disk. Speak to your physician to find out which one is right for you.

• 6

  Use medication if needed. If you and your doctor determine that over the counter medicine isn't working he can prescribe pain killers or muscle relaxers.

• 7

  Have surgery. Get rid of that pain in the neck by having laser surgery. Laser surgery will remove the excess portion of the disk that is bulging and causing pain. While there is no guarantee it will work, it might be worth a try.