If you've been diagnosed with a herniated, slipped or bulging disc, you may be looking for non-surgical treatment options. IDD Spinal Decompression is one treatment approach that may be considered for selected people with disc-related spinal problems.

At Leyton Osteopaths, we don't recommend IDD simply because an MRI shows a disc bulge or herniation.

We first assess your symptoms, clinical findings and MRI to determine whether the disc finding is likely to be relevant to your symptoms and whether IDD is appropriate.

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What is a herniated or bulging disc?

The discs between the vertebrae help distribute load and allow movement through the spine.

A bulging disc occurs when the disc extends beyond its usual margins.

A disc herniation involves a more focal displacement of disc material.

You may also hear terms such as:

• Slipped disc
• Prolapsed disc
• Disc protrusion
• Disc extrusion
• Herniated disc

The terminology used in your MRI report can be confusing, and different terms can have different meanings.

Can a disc problem cause pain?

Yes — but not every disc abnormality causes symptoms.

A disc problem may cause:

• Localised back or neck pain
• Buttock pain
• Sciatica
• Arm pain
• Numbness
• Tingling
• Weakness

Symptoms may occur when a disc problem irritates nearby tissues or nerves.

However, disc abnormalities are also commonly found in people who have no symptoms.

This is why your MRI cannot be interpreted in isolation.

How we determine whether IDD may be appropriate

Before recommending IDD, we consider several factors.

Your symptoms

Where is your pain? How did it begin? What makes it better or worse?

Your clinical examination

We assess your movement, spinal function and, where appropriate, neurological function.

Your MRI

We review the relevant findings and consider the spinal level, disc changes and surrounding structures.

Your medical history

Certain medical conditions and spinal findings may mean that IDD is unsuitable. Only after considering these factors can we determine whether IDD is an appropriate option.

IDD for a herniated disc

If a herniated disc is contributing to your symptoms and you meet the appropriate criteria, IDD may be considered as part of a conservative treatment programme. The aim is to provide a controlled treatment stimulus to the affected area of the spine.

IDD is not a surgical procedure and does not involve injections or medication.

IDD for a bulging disc

A bulging disc on an MRI does not automatically mean that IDD is required. If your symptoms and clinical findings suggest that the disc is relevant and you meet the appropriate criteria, IDD may be considered.

If we believe another approach is more appropriate, we'll tell you.

Why do you require an MRI?

One of the benefits of IDD Spinal Decompression is that you can target most of the decompressing forces to a specific area of the spine. An MRI helps us understand the structure of your spine and identify the levels that are contributing most to your symptoms. It also allows us to look for findings that may make IDD unsuitable.

If you don't already have an MRI, we can discuss your options for obtaining one and can refer you to private clinic where necessary.

What does an IDD programme involve?

If you are suitable for treatment, your programme will be tailored to your condition.

Treatment involves:

Assessment

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MRI review

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Treatment planning

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IDD Spinal Decompression

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Exercise and rehabilitation where appropriate

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Progress review

Your response is monitored throughout the programme.

Is IDD suitable for everyone with a herniated disc?

Some people with a herniated disc will get better through a combination of hands on treatment, home exercises and activity modification. However, where symptoms are more severe, long lasting, recurring or quality of life is significantly affected, IDD provides a valuable option.

What if IDD isn't right for me?

This is an important part of our approach. We don't believe that IDD is the answer to every disc problem.

Depending on your presentation, we may recommend:

• Osteopathic treatment
• Exercise and rehabilitation
• Medical assessment
• Further imaging or investigation
• Referral to a spinal surgeon
• Another appropriate treatment approach

Our priority is finding the right approach for your condition, not simply providing a particular treatment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can IDD treat a herniated disc?

Yes. Herniated discs are the most common problem that we treat with IDD Spinal Decompression.

Can IDD treat a bulging disc?

Not all disc bulges require treatment but if you are experiencing associated symptoms, especially nerve pain, IDD is a valuable treatment option.

Is IDD the same as spinal decompression?

IDD is a specific form of computer-controlled spinal decompression treatment. It is delivered using a specialised system with treatment parameters adjusted for the individual.

Do I need an MRI before IDD?

Yes. An appropriate MRI is required before beginning treatment.

How many treatments will I need?

The standard protocol is 20 sessions over an eight week period. We always start with 10 then make a decision about whether to continue. Due to the nature of the treatment we do not recommend a treatment plan of less than 10 sessions.

Ready to find out whether IDD is appropriate for you?

If you've been diagnosed with a herniated or bulging disc and are looking for a non-surgical treatment option, the first step is an assessment.

We'll review your symptoms, clinical findings and MRI and explain whether we think IDD is appropriate.