HNP, or herniated nucleus pulposus, is another term for a herniated disc. This refers to a disc in the spine that has developed a tear in the tough outer layer and pushed inner disc material, called the nucleus pulposus, into the spinal canal.

Many people who experience symptoms associated with HNP turn to alternative treatments if mainstream treatment methods do not provide lasting relief. Often, patients with HNP are able to effectively reduce the pain and symptoms of the condition through a series of nonsurgical treatments that include options like pain medication and physical therapy. The purpose of alternative treatments is to reduce pressure on the damaged disc in the spine by lengthening and strengthening the spine without surgery.

At USA Spine Care, we understand you want to research all possible alternative treatments before resorting to spine surgery. That is why we are here to help you find the right conservative treatment for your needs so you can combat your herniated disc and get back to the active lifestyle you enjoy.

Types of HNP alternative treatments

If mainstream conservative treatments prove ineffective, some patients choose to explore HNP alternative treatments. The National Center for Complementary and Integrated Health defines alternative medicine as products or medical systems that are not generally considered part of conventional mainstream medicine. These alternative treatments include:

• Alternative medical systems — Ayurveda (ancient Indian medicine), traditional Chinese medicine, naturopathy
• Mind-body interventions — biofeedback, cognitive behavioral therapy
• Plant-based therapies — herbal supplements, homeopathy, pain patches
• Manipulative and body-based methods — acupuncture, massage, chiropractic, yoga
• Energy therapies — magnets, ultrasound, transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS)

The minimally invasive alternative for surgical HNP treatment

If an HNP continues to produce chronic symptoms despite conventional and alternative treatments, a physician may suggest surgery as an option. Rather than settle for highly invasive, traditional open back procedures, contact USA Spine Care to learn about our minimally invasive spine surgery.

We offer a range of both minimally invasive decompression and minimally invasive stabilization procedures that can treat HNP and other conditions on an outpatient basis through the use of muscle-sparing techniques. Because of this, our patients are able to enjoy a shorter recovery time and less risk of complication compared to traditional open neck or back procedures.^

For more information about our alternative to traditional spine surgery, contact USA Spine Care and ask for your free MRI review* to see if you’re a candidate for our minimally invasive spine surgery.

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