To operate or not, depends on the severity. Cost wise... public
vs private.
Not too sure about curing, but there are prevention for that. For
those who do weights, always follow instructions. Never go beyond
limits. And if you carry heavy weights, always squat down and lift
the load, then stand up slowly. Never do it standing up.
Your age also plays a part. As you get older, you lose the
elasticity of the disc and supporting structures.
For managing it, if it isn't too serious, physiotherapy exercises
will begin. Otherwise, surgery will try to correct that, then move
on to physiotherapy. Also, the use of heat and cold packs will help
to ease the pain.
The physiotherapy part can be fast or slow, it depends on
individual. Usually, when the doctor feels you are OK, he will give
you tips on strengthening your back.
Pilates may help, as the exercises help you to discover muscles you
never knew existed. Also, they are progressive, which means you
start from the bottom and work all the way, beneficial for back
injuries.
