I've had low back pain for 8 months and an MRI showed a disc bulge, but the doctors haven't explained what caused it. Painkillers don't help, and I can't sit or work for more than an hour without pain. Even lifting slightly heavy things is tough. Do I really need surgery for this? I'm worried about steroid injections because of side effects like weight gain what else can I do to get back to normal life?

Answered by 1 Apollo Doctors

Dr Dhankecha Dineshbhai

General Practitioner

MBBS
6+ Yrs

Consult Now

Surgery is not always needed; structured physiotherapy and core strengthening can help avoid injections and regain function.

Dr. Dhankecha Suggests...

Consult a Orthopaedician

Find a Orthopaedician

Answered 14/08/2025

More Orthopaedics Health Queries

View all

My recent MRI showed a 15x12 mm multiseptated cystic lesion in the back of my left knee. Is there any way to treat this without surgery? The report is attached what do you recommend?

surgery follow-up is advised to the patient.

Answered by 1 Apollo Doctors

I was diagnosed with AVN possibly in the first or second stage and was told core decompression might be needed. Is there any chance it can be treated with just medications without surgery? I have my CT, MRI, and X-ray reports could I share them with you for your opinion if you provide an email address?

we can then consider surgical options.

Answered by 1 Apollo Doctors

My mom had knee surgery for a fracture and she has hypothyroidism but we didn't get her thyroid levels checked before the surgery was that really necessary or could it affect her recovery

Uncontrolled hypothyroidism can impact surgical recovery‚Äîthyroid function should ideally be checked pre-op.

Answered by 1 Apollo Doctors

Health Articles for you

View all

Rheumatic Arthritis

Self-Care Strategies for Rheumatoid Arthritis

Discover effective self-care strategies for rheumatoid arthritis, including pain management, joint protection, exercise tips, and lifestyle changes to improve daily comfort and mobility.

Shoulder Pain

Guide to Shoulder Pain What Could Be Reason

Discover common causes of shoulder pain, including injuries, posture issues, and medical conditions. Learn symptoms, diagnosis, and when to seek treatment.

Hip fracture

Why Does My Groin Still Hurt After Hip Replacement Surgery?

Still experiencing groin pain after hip replacement? Learn what might be causing it, when to worry, and how to manage it effectively for a smoother recovery.

Ankle Sprain

Ankle Sprain Overview and Recovery Information

Learn about ankle sprains, their symptoms, causes, and treatment options. Understand recovery time, care tips, and prevention strategies for better joint health.

ACL Injuries

ACL Injury: Symptoms, Causes and Treatment

Discover the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for ACL injury, including recovery tips to restore knee strength, stability, and function.

Disclaimer: Answers on Apollo 247 are not intended to replace your doctor advice. Always seek help of a professional doctor in case of an medical emergency or ailment.