Between each of your vertebrae is a round, supportive disc that acts as a shock absorber. If the outside of a disc tears and the fluid inside pushes or leaks out, it places pressure on the nerves in your spine, a condition known as a herniated disc. Left untreated, a herniated disc can significantly impact your quality of life. At American Pain Consortium, the interventional pain management experts specialize in treating herniated discs.
If you’re experiencing chronic neck or back pain, contact us today.
Your spine consists of a series of small, individual bones known as vertebrae. Your vertebrae sit on top of one another to form your spinal column. In between each vertebra is a round cushioning pad called an intervertebral disc. Each of these discs has a soft center, surrounded by a tough, protective layer.
A herniated disc occurs when pressure from your vertebrae causes the soft center of a disc to push or break through the tough outer layer. If the disc then makes contact with the surrounding nerves in your spine, it causes chronic pain and irritation. Herniated discs can occur anywhere in your spine, from your neck to your lower back.
Sometimes, herniated discs don’t present any obvious symptoms. However, as the condition progresses, you might experience:
The pain caused by a herniated disc varies, but most people describe it as sharp, stabbing, or electric-like.
A herniated disc occurs when the soft center of an intervertebral disc pushes out or breaks through its protective outer layer. However, a number of factors can contribute to this, including the natural aging process, being overweight, or a sudden strain, such as that caused by improper lifting.
To better evaluate the site of your herniation, your doctor may order diagnostic imaging tests. Depending on your symptoms, they might recommend an X-ray, CT scan, MRI, or electromyogram (EMG). These tests help your doctor determine the size and location of your herniated disc.
Treatment for a herniated disc depends on your unique symptoms. However, American Pain Consortium usually recommends conservative measures of care, such as non-opioid pain medications, physical therapy, and spinal injections.
If these methods of care don’t ease your symptoms, surgical intervention may be necessary. The practice regularly works with surgeons in the area and can refer you if necessary for a consultation to discuss possible surgical options.
Recovery varies from person to person. Many patients notice meaningful improvement within a few weeks to a few months with conservative treatment. Factors such as the size and location of the herniation, your overall health, and how consistently you follow your care plan all influence the timeline. Your provider will track your progress and adjust treatment if your symptoms are not improving as expected.
Most people do not. Surgery is generally considered only when symptoms persist despite a reasonable course of nonsurgical care, or when there is significant nerve compression causing progressive weakness or other serious symptoms. Our team focuses on exhausting appropriate nonsurgical options first, and will refer you for a surgical consultation if it becomes the right next step.
Early on, it’s wise to limit heavy lifting, repeated bending or twisting, high-impact exercise, and long periods of sitting. Complete bed rest is generally not recommended, since staying too inactive can slow recovery. Your care team can help you identify which movements to modify and when it’s safe to return to them.
If you suspect you may have a herniated disc, don’t wait to seek treatment. Make an appointment at American Pain Consortium; schedule your consultation today.