herniated disc/ms

My Dr said he thinks that I might have a herniated disc and if my symptoms get worse then we'll have to go ahead and get a MRI.  I told him that I really don't want a dx yet because I plan on going back to work and it should be around 8 or so months before I'll have ins.  Also wants me to call when any new symptoms happen.

Will I be doing more damage if I have a herniated disc and hold off on treatment?  Anyone have experience with herniated disc.  If this is what I have my lower back is what is effected as I am having problems with burning pain in my legs, tingling toes, and back pain which is all causing it almost impossible to walk.

[Jenny Wren]

Most certainly.  My hubby has a herniated disk at L-4, bulging at L-5, and he is in terrible pain.  Sometimes he says that he feels that he can't breathe, its spasms in his back causing this.  This affects his sciatic nerve, and it burns all the way down his left leg, and it feels like someone is tightening a clamp around his ankle.  My husband has had 6 stitches on his face, near his eyebrow, he would not let the nurse numb it.  He never twitched a second while they did this.  But this pain, he can't take it.  I would say that this could be your problem. Hope you feel better!!!!

[scooterpdx]

I think it all depends on how the herniated disc is affecting you. I had a herniated disc (L5-S1) and tried for five months to fix it using various forms of physical therapy. During that time, it did not bother me too much, but I did have slight sciatica. I eventually had surgery which fixed it, but many people choose to use other methods to try to help it resolve itself. I would investigate some physical therapy exercises to help alleviate any pain and even to help resolve it. Also investigate stretching exercises and proper sitting and sleeping positions. Good luck.