Herniated Disc Specialist

What is a herniated disc?

You have small spongy discs between each of your vertebrae. The discs consist of a gel-like nucleus, surrounded by a rubbery shell. These spinal discs cushion your vertebrae, absorb shock, and reduce friction in your spine.

However, injury and wear over time can create a small tear in the rubbery shell of the disc, which allows the gel interior to bulge out. There’s limited space in your spine, and this small bulge can compress the many nerves that run through and out of your spine, leading to pain, numbness, and weakness in your back, arms, and legs.

What are the symptoms of a herniated disc?

Most herniated discs develop in your lumbar spine and cause sciatica symptoms, including pain and numbness that radiates from your lower back down through one or both of your buttocks and legs. If your herniated disc is located in your neck or upper back, you may develop similar symptoms in your arms.

If you have back pain, numbness, or weakness that doesn’t subside after a few days of rest, over-the-counter pain relievers, and the use of hot and cold compresses, you should make an appointment with the team at International Spine Pain & Performance Center for assessment and customized treatments.

What causes disc herniation?

In most cases, a herniated disc develops because of the gradual deterioration and wear and tear on your spine. As you age, your discs can lose water and become dry and fragile, which makes them weak and increases your risk of herniation. Factors such as obesity and a physically demanding career can increase your risk of a herniated disc.

How is a herniated disc treated?

The pain management experts at International Spine Pain & Performance Center provide customized treatment plans following thorough exams to diagnose herniated discs. They often combine treatments to provide the personalized care you need to both heal your spine and reduce your pain.

For example, they may prescribe anti-inflammatories such as oral medicines and spinal cortisone injections to reduce swelling in your spine and alleviate the symptoms of nerve compression, and physical therapy to improve the strength of the muscles supporting your spine to protect your vertebrae and spinal discs.

If you’re living with back pain or experiencing pain, numbness, and weakness in your arms and legs, call International Spine Pain & Performance Center or schedule an appointment online today for expert diagnosis and treatment.