Do Disc Herniations Heal?
Most Disc Herniations Heal on Their Own — Here’s What You Should Know
If you’ve been told you have a disc herniation, it might’ve felt like a life sentence. Maybe the MRI looked scary. Maybe you were told surgery is your only option.
But here’s the truth: Most disc herniations don’t need surgery — and many heal naturally with the right approach.
Two-Thirds of Disc Herniations Reabsorb Naturally
Research shows that around 66% of disc herniations shrink or disappear on their own over time. Yes, you read that right — your body is often capable of healing the disc without surgery.
Even more surprising? Larger herniations are more likely to heal. While they might look worse on an MRI, they actually trigger a stronger healing response in the body. Think of it like your body recognizing a problem and sending the full repair crew to fix it.
Pain and MRI Results Don’t Always Match
One of the biggest things we try to educate patients on is this: just because something shows up on an image, doesn’t mean it’s causing your pain.
It’s very common for people with big disc herniations to have little or no pain, and for people with small bulges to feel miserable. That’s why we focus on how you're moving and feeling—not just what an MRI says.
Surgery Isn’t the First (or Only) Option
We’re not anti-surgery—sometimes it’s necessary, especially if there’s major nerve damage or loss of bowel/bladder control. But for the vast majority of people, surgery isn’t needed.
With the right conservative care—like what we do here at Momentum Spine and Sport—most people get better without ever going under the knife.
What Conservative Care Looks Like Here
At Momentum, we take a movement-based, rehab-focused approach. We help you:
✅ Understand what’s really going on
✅ Reduce pain through guided, intentional movement
✅ Build strength and stability
✅ Get back to doing what you love—without fear
We don’t just treat your symptoms—we help you understand why they’re happening and what to do about them.
Let’s Find Out if You’re a Good Fit for Conservative Care
If you’ve been told you have a disc herniation and you’re not sure what to do next—let’s talk.
We offer a Free Discovery Session where we take the time to hear your story, evaluate your movement, and see if our approach is the right fit for you.
👉 Click the link at the top of the page to schedule your free session today.
Your back is resilient. Let’s help it heal—without unnecessary treatment plans, fear, or surgery.
