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All surgery involves some risk. If you are considering surgery, consider the following factors:

• A number of technologies using small incisions or injections for destroying the disc are used by some surgeons. Examples are endoscopic discectomy and electrothermal disc decompression.⁷ These techniques are experimental and unproven. If your health professional recommends one of them to treat your Herniated Disc, make sure to get as much information as possible about the procedure. Consider a second opinion to further evaluate whether such a procedure is appropriate for you.
• People with moderate to severe symptoms may gain relief from surgery.^{8, 9} Surgery is usually not done unless symptoms are severe enough to interfere with normal activities and work, and to require strong pain medicines.
• People with milder symptoms tend to do well without surgery.
• Some people require additional disc surgery after their first surgery.

 Should I have surgery for a herniated disc?

Many people are able to gradually resume work and daily activities soon after surgery. In some cases, your health professional may recommend a rehabilitation program after surgery, which might include physical therapy and home exercises.