Why A Disc Herniation Doesn’t Always Mean Surgery

A disc herniation on an MRI does NOT automatically mean you need surgery. 🩻
Dr. Stratton Poulson explains why imaging and symptoms don’t always tell the same story.
In this clip from Coffee Time with Carlos Machado – Episode 30, Dr. Poulson discusses how some people with disc herniations or bulges can recover without surgery through appropriate conservative care, including reducing stress on the affected area and using exercises to support recovery.
He also explains a fascinating point from the research: disc abnormalities can appear on MRI scans in people who have no pain or symptoms at all.
The bigger lesson? An MRI is one piece of the puzzle—not necessarily the whole story.
Always discuss your individual symptoms and treatment options with a qualified healthcare professional.