What is Herniated Disc?
- Sometimes referred to as slipped or ruptured disc
- Occurs when a tear or weakness in the outer layer of the disc allows the inner layer to push out into the spinal canal
- We treat with a minimally-invasive, simple laser procedure
Your spinal column is made up of bones that are cushioned by small discs consisting of a tough out layer (annulus) and a soft inner layer (nucleus). These discs act as shock absorbers, protecting the spine and nerves from the stress of everyday tasks and strenuous work such as heavy lifting. When a disc herniates, a tear or weakness in the annulus allows the jelly-like nucleus to push out into the spinal canal. If this puts pressure on a spinal nerve, pain, numbness or weakness in the back, legs or arms results. Herniated discs are most common in the lower spine, but about 10% occur in the neck.
Our Treatment Approach
Spine care back and spine specialists treat herniated discs with a minimally-invasive, simple laser procedure. Because our focus is on minimally invasive approaches, recovery times are generally quicker and patients often experience pain relief sooner rather than later.
Causes
A herniated disc can be caused by:
- Degenerative disc disease
- Injury/trauma to the back/spine
- Improper lifting
Symptoms
Your symptoms will depend on where the herniation occurs. If there is no pressure on a nerve, then you may not know you have the condition.
Most people who suffer a herniated disc experience pain ranging from dull or sharp, muscle spasms or cramping, weakness, tingling, or radiating pain. If you have a herniated disc or bulging disc in your neck, then you may experience neck pain, muscle tightness or cramping in your neck, pain that radiates down your arms, tingling or weakness in your arms or hands.
A herniated disc in the low back may cause low back pain, muscle tightness or cramping in your low back, pain that radiates down your legs, tingling or weakness in your legs.
Are you experiencing any of the symptoms? Herniated disc should be treated by an experienced spine specialist. Please get in touch with Dr. Abhijit Pawar and book your appointment today.
