Our initial physical therapy for a herniated disc or bulging disc may provide some immediate symptom relief. In our experience we see results after 6 weeks and lasting results after 10-18 weeks. This was also found in a study where improvements in pain and overall function after 6 weeks of physical therapy for a lumbar disc herniation [1]. At the 12 week mark the study participants saw significant and lasting improvement. [1]
[1] Gugliotta M, da Costa BR, Dabis E, et alSurgical versus conservative treatment for lumbar disc herniation: a prospective cohort studyBMJ Open 2016;6:e012938. doi: 10.1136/bmjopen-2016-012938
