Is it possible for a herniated bulging disk to heal on its own?

I have a herniated bulging disk. I am in bad pain. Dr. said I need surgery. I don't want to be cut on, yet I don't like the pain. I do not like takeing drugs either. What can I do?

I have a prolapsed disk it will in time through natural shrinkage of the spine be much less of a pain than now.

I would get a second opinion just to make sure you do indeed need surgery. If the second doctor agrees, then you really should get the surgery done because permanent damage could occur and then you could have severe pain down your arms or legs (depending on where disk is) for rest of your life or even become paralyzed possibly if you re-injure the area.

You're having pain? You have to get rid of the problem. There may not be a lot of drugs; just enough to get better. Then, there won't be anymore pain. You need to be realistic. Without surgery it will just get worse. We all have to do things that we don't like sometimes. The longer you put it off, the longer you will have the pain.

Well it depends on where its herniated and if its pushing on the spinal cord. Most herniated disc can be done with micro surgery now. If your confident in your doctor then get it done, it will only cause you many years of pain. If its in your neck you need to do it right away, if its in your lower back and your having tingling or numbness in your feet or legs it needs to be done. Of course its up to you, but I can tell you from experience you will be glad when its over with. The drugs for pain are not the greatest thing for your body. Best to you.