Can a Herniated Lumbar Disc Be Naturally Resorbed?

by Son PMR(Physical medicine & Rehabilitation ) & Chiropractic Clinic in Seoul

Hello, this is Dr. Cheolho Son from Son Cheolho Rehabilitation Medicine Clinic.

When patients hear they have a herniated lumbar disc, many immediately worry that surgery is inevitable. However, clinical experience and scientific studies show that some disc herniations can shrink or be naturally resorbed over time, even without surgery. In this article, I’d like to explain how this happens and introduce several non-surgical treatment options that may support recovery.

🧬 How Can a Herniated Disc Be Naturally Resorbed?

When the nucleus pulposus (the inner core of the disc) escapes through the annulus fibrosus and comes into contact with surrounding tissues, the immune system recognizes it as a foreign substance. This immune reaction involves:

  • Macrophage infiltration
    → Immune cells digest and remove the extruded disc material through phagocytosis.

  • Inflammatory response and neovascularization
    → Inflammatory cytokines like TNF-α and IL-1β promote the formation of new blood vessels around the herniated tissue, improving immune access.

  • Matrix-degrading enzymes (MMPs)
    → These enzymes break down the structural proteins in the disc, facilitating gradual resorption.

📌 This process is more commonly observed in sequestrated or extruded-type herniations, where the disc fragment has separated from the main disc and entered the epidural space.

📚 Evidence from Medical Research

  • Komori H et al. (Spine, 1998)
    MRI studies showed that contrast-enhanced herniations with inflammatory activity were more likely to undergo spontaneous resorption.

  • Chiu CC et al. (Clin Rehabil, 2015)
    A systematic review of 11 studies found spontaneous disc resorption occurred in 43–100% of patients, depending on herniation type.

  • Autio RA et al. (Spine, 2006)
    Sequestrated discs demonstrated stronger macrophage infiltration and neovascularization, correlating with higher resorption rates.

🧘‍♀️ Non-Surgical Treatments That May Support Recovery

While natural resorption is an internal physiological process, various conservative therapies can help reduce pain and support functional recovery:

✅ 1. Intramuscular Stimulation (IMS)

IMS is used to relieve deep muscle tension and hyperactive nerve roots around the lumbar spine. It may help reduce protective muscle spasms and improve nerve mobility.

✅ 2. PDRN Injection Therapy

Polydeoxyribonucleotide (PDRN) is a regenerative compound that may assist in tissue healing and inflammation control, especially around ligaments and soft tissues.

✅ 3. Chiropractic Care – Especially Upper Cervical Adjustment

Though the problem is in the lower back, imbalance in the upper cervical spine (C1, C2) can affect overall postural alignment, increasing mechanical load on the lumbar discs.

At our clinic, we perform detailed assessments to correct misalignments in the upper cervical spine. This helps optimize spinal balance and neurological tone, potentially reducing strain on the lower back and promoting better weight distribution across the pelvis.

✅ 4. Vitamin and Nutritional Therapy

Supporting disc metabolism and nerve function may benefit from appropriate nutritional strategies. Commonly considered nutrients include:

NutrientPossible Role
Vitamin B complex (B1, B6, B12)Supports peripheral nerve repair and reduces neuralgia
Vitamin CAntioxidant; may aid in collagen synthesis and soft tissue healing
Vitamin DModulates immunity and inflammation; supports muscle strength
Magnesium, ZincImportant for neuromuscular conduction and cellular recovery

Note: Supplement plans should be tailored to individual health status and nutritional needs, ideally under medical supervision.

✅ 5. Nerve Block Injections & Postural Rehabilitation

To manage acute pain, we offer targeted nerve injections. Long-term recovery is supported by postural retraining, core stabilization, and ergonomic education.

✍️ In Conclusion

A herniated disc does not always require surgery.
In fact, some patients show spontaneous resorption and symptom relief with conservative care alone. At Son Cheolho Rehabilitation Medicine Clinic, we offer an integrative treatment approach including:

  • IMS (Intramuscular Stimulation)

  • PDRN injections

  • Upper cervical-focused chiropractic care

  • Nutritional and vitamin support

  • Functional rehabilitation and posture correction

If you're experiencing persistent back pain or have been diagnosed with a herniated disc, we welcome you to consult with us to explore non-surgical treatment options that suit your condition and goals.

We’re here to help you heal—safely, naturally, and with dignity.

👍Consultation and Appointment Information

Son PMR & Chiropractic Clinic( 2nd floor, 229-1 Gucheonmyun-Ro, Gangdongu, Seoul, South Korea) 

by  Dr Son MD & DC 
Contact: 02-482-8875 in Seoul( +82-2-482-8875)

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