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The First appointment for back pain is a 30-minute appointment with a physiotherapist, where an assessment of your situation is performed by an expert specialised in back ailments, and you receive instructions for further care. You do not need a referral.
*The price of the visit is 49 € after the Kela reimbursement and includes the Kanta and outpatient fees. The price without the Kela reimbursement is 64 €. A Kela reimbursement for physiotherapy can be obtained without a doctor's referral 4 times a year.
Possible follow-up care and further examinations are not included in the price.
A physiotherapist can help assess new, mild, prolonged or recurring back pain. At the first appointment for back pain, an assessment of your situation will be performed and you will receive a plan for suitable follow-up treatment. No referral is needed.
Book an appointment with a back physician if the pain is associated with muscle weakness, numbness or other nerve symptoms. An assessment performed by a physician may also be needed if your functional capacity has significantly deteriorated.
If the back pain started after a fall, a sports injury, or another accident, seek an assessment performed by a physician. The physician will assess whether imaging examinations or other treatment is needed. Find the nearest emergency services.
Seek emergency services if the accident is associated with severe pain, significant muscle weakness, or other serious symptoms.
Prices for specialists, e.g., gynaecologists, dermatologists, cardiologists, orthopaedists, and ophthalmologists, may vary according to the specialist. You can see the exact price on the specialist's own page or in the online booking by clicking on the doctor's name.
| Service | Price estimate | Info |
|---|---|---|
| Appointment with a specialist, 20 min Price per appointment. | from 140,10 € Without Kela reimbursement from 148,10 € Price estimate from 140,10 € Without Kela reimbursement from 148,10 € | Price per appointment. |
| Appointment with a specialist, 30 min Price per appointment. | from 163,10 € Without Kela reimbursement from 171,10 € Price estimate from 163,10 € Without Kela reimbursement from 171,10 € | Price per appointment. |
| Appointment with a specialist, 45 min Price per appointment. | from 199,10 € Without Kela reimbursement from 207,10 € Price estimate from 199,10 € Without Kela reimbursement from 207,10 € | Price per appointment. |
| Gynaecologist's appointment, 20 min | from 83,10 € Without Kela reimbursement from 153,10 € Price estimate from 83,10 € Without Kela reimbursement from 153,10 € | |
| Gynaecologist's appointment, 30 min | from 90,10 € Without Kela reimbursement from 160,10 € Price estimate from 90,10 € Without Kela reimbursement from 160,10 € | |
| Dermatologist's appointment, 20 min | from 144,10 € Without Kela reimbursement from 152,10 € Price estimate from 144,10 € Without Kela reimbursement from 152,10 € | |
| Dermatologist's appointment, 30 min | from 159,10 € Without Kela reimbursement from 167,10 € Price estimate from 159,10 € Without Kela reimbursement from 167,10 € | |
| ENT doctor's appointment, 20 min | from 142,10 € Without Kela reimbursement from 150,10 € Price estimate from 142,10 € Without Kela reimbursement from 150,10 € | |
| ENT doctor's appointment, 30 min | from 166,90 € Without Kela reimbursement from 174,90 € Price estimate from 166,90 € Without Kela reimbursement from 174,90 € | |
| Paediatrician's appointment, 20 min | from 142,10 € Without Kela reimbursement from 150,10 € Price estimate from 142,10 € Without Kela reimbursement from 150,10 € | |
| Paediatrician's appointment, 30 min | from 166,90 € Without Kela reimbursement from 174,90 € Price estimate from 166,90 € Without Kela reimbursement from 174,90 € | |
| Orthopaedist's appointment, 20 min | from 142,10 € Without Kela reimbursement from 150,10 € Price estimate from 142,10 € Without Kela reimbursement from 150,10 € | |
| Orthopaedist's appointment, 30 min | from 166,90 € Without Kela reimbursement from 174,90 € Price estimate from 166,90 € Without Kela reimbursement from 174,90 € | |
| Appointment with a psychiatrist, 45 min Price per appointment. | from 123,70 € Without Kela reimbursement from 173,70 € Price estimate from 123,70 € Without Kela reimbursement from 173,70 € | Price per appointment. |
| Appointment with a psychiatrist, 60 min Price per appointment. | from 172,10 € Without Kela reimbursement from 232,10 € Price estimate from 172,10 € Without Kela reimbursement from 232,10 € | Price per appointment. |
| Ophthalmologist's appointment, 30 min | from 166,90 € Without Kela reimbursement from 174,90 € Price estimate from 166,90 € Without Kela reimbursement from 174,90 € | |
| Ophthalmologist's appointment, 45 min | from 222,10 € Without Kela reimbursement from 230,10 € Price estimate from 222,10 € Without Kela reimbursement from 230,10 € |
Mehiläinen’s subsidiaries in Estonia also offer spinal disc herniation surgeries to Finnish customers. It is possible to apply for reimbursement from Kela for the services in accordance with the Act on Cross-Border Health Care.
Revised 10/13/2026
Published 12/1/2023
The spinal discs are flexible structures located between the vertebrae of the spine that cushion the load placed on the back. A spinal disc has a soft core and a stronger outer layer surrounding it.
In a spinal disc herniation, or protrusion, the fibres of the outer ring of the disc stretch and the shape of the disc changes so that it bulges outwards. The contents of the disc do not pass through the outer layer in this case. The bulge can sometimes irritate or compress a nearby nerve.
In a spinal disc herniation, or prolapse, the fibres of the outer ring of the disc have given way and the soft contents of the disc can pass outwards through them. A disc tear can therefore be related to the development of a spinal disc herniation. A spinal disc herniation can also irritate or compress a nerve.
Spinal disc protrusion and spinal disc herniation are structural changes in the disc, whereas sciatica is a symptom. Sciatica refers to pain or other nerve symptoms radiating from the lower back to the leg. A spinal disc herniation can cause sciatica, but sciatica can also be caused by other nerve irritation or compression.
A spinal disc herniation and spinal disc herniation can occur when stress is placed on the structure of the disc and its structure changes or is damaged. The natural ageing of the discs predisposes to changes, as discs dry out and become less flexible with age. However, spinal disc herniations and spinal disc herniations can occur in people of all ages.
A spinal disc herniation can develop, for example, in connection with lifting or other physical exertion. Sudden or repetitive stress can predispose the disc to damage, especially if there are already degenerative changes in the disc.
The risk of a spinal disc herniation and spinal disc herniation can be increased by, for example:
Spinal disc herniations and spinal disc herniations are common, and they do not always cause symptoms. An MRI can show, for example, drying of the discs and other changes also in people who have no symptoms associated with them.
If a spinal disc herniation or spinal disc herniation irritates or compresses a nerve, symptoms may include, for example:
Symptoms depend on where in the spine the change is located and which nerve it may irritate or compress.
A spinal disc herniation or spinal disc herniation can also cause back pain without nerve symptoms. In connection with a spinal disc herniation, local lower back pain may begin, for example, after lifting or other exertion, and nerve symptoms radiating into a limb may only develop later, often within 1–2 days.
Changes in the discs can also be related to spinal stenosis, which can cause back and leg pains as well as other nerve symptoms.
A lumbar spinal disc herniation or spinal disc herniation can cause pain in the lower back, buttock, and thigh. The pain can also radiate to the lower leg and all the way to the toes.
Pain radiating to the leg may be accompanied by tingling, numbness, or muscle weakness. Nerve symptoms can also occur without severe back pain.
With prolonged symptoms, the location of the pain may also vary. At times, the pain may be felt only in the lower leg and later move higher up to the buttock, or vice versa.
A cervical disc herniation or spinal disc herniation can be felt in the neck and radiate from there to the shoulder, arm, or all the way to the fingers. Tingling or numbness may also occur in the hand, and the strength or grip of the hand may weaken.
A cervical disc herniation may also be associated with an aching pain in the area between the shoulder blade and the spine. In connection with cervical disc changes, headache and neck stiffness may also occur.
A thoracic spinal disc herniation or spinal disc herniation is fairly rare. It can cause pain that is felt in a band-like pattern in the area of the thorax or side.
More common problems in the thoracic spine area include changes related to disc degeneration or, for example, scoliosis.
Chest pain should always be evaluated in healthcare if it is accompanied by, for example, shortness of breath, a deterioration in general condition, or other symptoms indicative of cardiac problems.
Book an appointment with a physician if pain radiating into a limb interferes with sleep, work, or ordinary daily life, or if the symptoms persist and do not ease. At the appointment, the cause of the symptoms is determined and an assessment is performed on what kind of treatment would help best. A back pain first appointment is a low-threshold way to start investigating the symptoms together with a physiotherapist.
Book a back pain first appointment
Seek medical attention quickly if the pain is unbearable or you notice that your toes drag when walking or your foot does not lift normally. In cervical nerve root problems, symptoms may in turn be felt in the upper limbs.
A spinal disc herniation cannot be reliably diagnosed at home. At the appointment, a physician assesses the symptoms and examines, for example, muscle strength, sensation, reflexes, walking, and mobility of the back. If necessary, tests can also be performed to assess nerve irritation.
If the examination raises suspicion of a disc tear or a spinal disc herniation, the physician will assess the need for further examinations.
A spinal disc herniation can, if necessary, be examined with magnetic resonance imaging. Magnetic resonance imaging provides more detailed information about the spinal discs and nerve roots, as well as a possible spinal disc herniation. The scan can also assess spinal stenosis.
Magnetic resonance imaging is particularly needed when surgical treatment is being considered or the symptoms involve alarming features.
A spinal disc herniation is most often treated without surgery. The goal of treatment is to relieve symptoms, support recovery and restore functional capacity. Especially in the early stages of symptoms, the nerve usually has a good chance of recovery.
A physiotherapist can help in planning suitable exercises and gradually increasing load. Rehabilitation may include, for example, mobility and strength training as well as exercises that support nerve movement.
Self-care and an active everyday life are an important part of recovery. During the pain phase, it is advisable to avoid heavy lifting, sudden exertion, and movements that clearly worsen symptoms. It is also a good idea to leave heavy gym workouts and intense stretching for later.
However, there is no need to fear light physical activity. The most important thing is to listen to your body and gradually increase activity.
Include light exercise in every day. Short walks several times a day are better suited for many than a single long session. Pool exercises can reduce the load on your back, but for some people, swimming can worsen lower back symptoms.
If pain forces you to rest, keep rest periods short and get moving every now and then. Continuous bed rest causes stiffness and slows down recovery. A suitable level of strain is one that does not increase radiating pain.
Change your position often, especially if you sit a lot. Stand up occasionally and walk for a while. You can try a small pillow on the backrest of your chair to support your lower back, and you should keep your feet on the floor.
At your workstation, keep the screen at eye level and your shoulders relaxed. You do not need to search for a perfect position – the most important thing is to avoid constantly staying in the same position. It is advisable to do housework in smaller parts if it increases symptoms.
There is no single sleeping position that suits everyone. Try a position where your back and legs feel as relaxed as possible. For example, a pillow between your knees when lying on your side or under your knees when lying on your back can bring relief.
Sleeping on your stomach can worsen symptoms for some people, so it is worth trying other positions during the painful phase as well.
For temporary pain, painkillers available from pharmacies can be used according to the package instructions. Consult a physician about suitable medication if you need painkillers regularly or if the pain does not ease.
Cold can relieve sharp pain and heat relaxes tense muscles. A light massage can relieve muscle tension, but it does not eliminate a spinal disc herniation or spinal disc herniation. Strong pressure should be avoided in the area of radiating nerve pain.
Surgery may be considered if severe radiating pain continues for several weeks and rehabilitation does not provide sufficient relief. Surgery may be needed more quickly if muscle strength weakens significantly or severe nerve symptoms occur.
A physician assesses the situation together with you. The assessment takes into account the duration and severity of the symptoms, functional capacity, and potential nerve symptoms.
The operation is usually performed microscope-assisted, and you can often return home on the same day. In the surgery, the compressed nerve root is released, usually by removing only the part of the spinal disc that is pressing on the nerve.
At Mehiläinen, a spinal disc herniation or bulge can also be treated with endoscopic surgery. The method aims to spare tissue as much as possible. In the endoscopic procedure, a small incision is made in the back, through which the spinal disc herniation is removed and the nerve root is released. Recovery from endoscopic surgery is usually faster than from traditional microscope surgery.
After surgery, the wound area may be sore for a few days, but you can get up and move already on the day of the surgery. Light physical activity supports recovery, and a physiotherapist will help, if necessary, to find a suitable way to exercise and advance in rehabilitation.
The first 3–4 weeks are usually a time for calmer recovery. It may be possible to return to light sedentary work already after 1–2 weeks, if your condition allows it. Returning to heavy work and recreational activities usually takes longer, often around 5–8 weeks.
The length of sick leave depends on the job description and your own condition. Recovery is individual, and a physician will assess a suitable schedule based on your situation.
You can book an appointment directly for an assessment of the need for back surgery or contact our surgical counselling. Our surgical counselling will help you find out whether surgical treatment for a spinal disc herniation could be suitable for your situation and what kind of help is available.
Leave your contact information, and we will contact you as soon as possible. Contacting us does not commit you to anything.
A spinal disc herniation or disc tear cannot always be prevented. However, taking care of the functional capacity of the back and having good lifestyle habits can support the well-being of the discs and the back.
Regular exercise and good condition of the muscles of the back, abdomen, and pelvis help keep the back functional. It is advisable to take breaks from prolonged sitting and change posture regularly.
When lifting heavy loads, it is best to keep the load close to the body and lift calmly. Lifting while reaching far away combined with twisting the back should be avoided, as such strain can predispose the disc to damage. However, not all lifting or strenuous exercise needs to be avoided. It is good to get the back accustomed to strain gradually and keep movement part of everyday life.
Back pain
A common and often benign ailment. For sudden, prolonged or severe pain, you can quickly get help from our specialists.
Scoliosis
What causes scoliosis and how is it treated? Read about the symptoms of scoliosis and book an appointment with a spine specialist. .
Spinal stenosis
Spinal stenosis, or spinal canal stenosis, often causes leg pain, numbness and intermittent claudication.
Yes. Most spinal disc herniations calm down over time without surgery. A spinal disc herniation can also shrink on its own as the protruding disc material gradually clears away or recedes. Relief of symptoms can be supported by light exercise and gradually increasing activity.
A spinal disc herniation visible on an MRI also does not always mean that symptoms are still present.
For many, symptoms ease within a few weeks. However, radiating nerve pain can last longer, sometimes several months. Recovery is affected, among other things, by the severity of the symptoms, the location of the spinal disc change, and how the symptoms gradually subside.
If the symptoms do not ease as expected or continue to interfere with everyday life, it is advisable to reassess the situation. If necessary, a physician can examine nervous system function and assess whether magnetic resonance imaging, for example, is needed. Physiotherapy may be helpful if symptoms persist or returning to movement and everyday life feels difficult.
If symptoms are prolonged or severe, the physician will assess together with you whether other treatment or surgical treatment would be beneficial.
Yes. The risk of recurrence can be reduced by keeping physical activity as part of daily life and gradually returning to more strenuous activities. However, a back-friendly everyday life does not mean that all lifting or movements should be avoided.
Even after surgery for a spinal disc herniation, the possibility of a new disc injury exists. Surgery treats the acute nerve compression and gives the nerve an opportunity to recover, but it does not prevent new disc changes from developing.
Usually you can, and light walking is often a good way to keep movement as part of everyday life. Start with short walks and gradually increase the distance depending on how you feel. If walking clearly worsens radiating pain or causes new muscle weakness, seek an assessment.
Often you can, if work does not significantly worsen the symptoms. If needed, work can be lightened or paused, and you can return to normal workload gradually. In heavy work, the return may take longer than in light sedentary work.
Massage does not eliminate a spinal disc herniation or a spinal disc herniation, but it can relieve the associated muscle tension. If massage increases radiating pain, it should be avoided. A physiotherapist can help assess what kind of treatment or training is suitable for the situation.
Rehabilitation is an essential part of the healing and recovery process after back surgery.
Post-surgery rehabilitation promotes recovery, and restricting exercise is often not necessary. A physiotherapist ensures that recovery progresses at the right pace in accordance with the physician's instructions.
Price is not an obstacle to the examination or treatment of a spinal disc herniation.
Explore our price list and our flexible payment methods, which make treatment possible in various life situations. In our online booking, you can see each specialist's price estimate for the selected service.
If you are an insurance or occupational health customer, please check the need for a referral to different services with your insurance company or occupational health care.
