Herniated Disc

Posted By Patrick on December 03, 1998 at 09:31:19:







My MRI results from 11/20/98 show a large herniation at L5-S1.  This herniation is pressing upon both the right and left nerve roots.  On Nov. 30th I received a cortizone shot and had a conversation with a physician.  who stated that he also once had a herniated disc and that he did absolutely nothing about it .  The pain slowly dissipated and now he is back to normal.  For myself I have seen improvement form the time between  the cortizone shot and now however I am still feeling discomfort and I would assume that the pain will last for a substantially longer period if I keep on treating conservatively.  I would like to get back to normal and I am wondoring if you have any information about how long the discomfort usually lasts for herniated discs if no surgery is performed?  This information may help in deciding what route to take (surgery or continued conservative treatment).
Thank You