Herniated Disc Surgery vs Other Options: How to Decide
Short answer: Before herniated disc surgery, less invasive options are usually considered: rest, physical therapy, medications and injections; surgery when these fail or there is a deficit. The final decision is made by the specialist based on your case.
Are there alternatives to herniated disc surgery? Sometimes there are.
Options
Rest, physical therapy, medications and injections; surgery when these fail or there is a deficit.
When surgery is preferred
When symptoms persist, there is a risk, or conservative options fail. The specialist decides the indication; results vary from person to person.