Herniated Disc

What is a herniated disc?

A herniated disc, also known as a ruptured or slipped disc, means you have a damaged intervertebral disc. Intervertebral discs are pillow-like cushions found between each vertebral bone that make up your spine. These discs act as shock absorbers and support spinal mobility.

You may develop a herniated disc from excessive strain or an acute injury. However, your intervertebral discs degenerate as you get older, making them more susceptible to damage.

With a herniated disc, the soft gel-like center of the disc pushes through a crack in the tough exterior. You may develop a herniated disc in any part of your spine, but they most often occur in the lumbar (lower back) and cervical (neck) spine.

What are the symptoms of a herniated disc?

Herniated disc symptoms may depend on the location and severity of the herniation, as well as whether the damaged disc irritates or compresses the spinal cord or a spinal nerve.

Common symptoms of a herniated disc include:

• Dull neck or back pain
• Weakness in the arms or legs
• Tingling sensation that travels into the arms or legs
• Electric shock-like sensations
• Numbness or pain in the feet, ankles, fingers, or wrists
• Poor hand grip
• Unable to stretch or extend the toes
• Unable to push off with the feet
• Sciatica
• Radiculopathy

About 10-15% of people diagnosed with a herniated disc experience a recurrence of their symptoms within three months after their initial recovery.

What can I expect during a herniated disc consultation?

When you visit South Coast Spine & Sports for a herniated disc consultation, you can expect a patient-focused exam. The team takes the time to fully understand your ultimate goals to provide you with the best treatment options.

Dr. Hilal asks detailed questions about your symptoms, including the type and location of your pain, when it started, and the activities that worsen or alleviate your discomfort.

He performs a physical exam and runs various diagnostic tests to determine the location and severity of your herniated disc.

How is a herniated disc treated?

Before making any surgical recommendations, Dr. Hilal maximizes all non-operative treatment options to alleviate your herniated disc symptoms. Treatment options may include:

• Anti-inflammatory medication
• Activity modification
• Physical therapy at the on-site, state-of-the-art facility
• Epidural steroid injections

If non-operative treatments fail to alleviate your herniated disc symptoms, then Dr. Hilal may recommend surgery. Surgical options include minimally invasive discectomy, disc replacement, or spinal fusion.

For comprehensive care of a herniated disc, call Total Orthopedics South Coast Spine & Sports, or request a consultation online today.