A herniated disc (or a herniated disk) occurs when a portion of the vertebral disc ruptures. Then, the inner central part of the disc pushes out into the spinal canal. This happens on nerves in the upper back areas.
The spinal canal has limited space. Therefore, it’s common for the disc to displace and cause pressure on the nerve. Thereafter, pain and numbness may occur. However, if the disc is smaller, it is sometimes called protrusions.
Cervical Herniated Disk:
Lumbar Herniated Disk:
Disc herniation can occur in both the cervical and lumbar spine. However, depending on location, causes differ. For instance:
Cervical Herniated Disc:
Lumbar Herniated Disc:
To properly diagnose a herniated disc, the doctor first orders imaging tests. For instance, an MRI, X-ray, or CT scans are normal. Showing the soft tissue of a herniated disc. Therefore, you can see the stage and location of the herniation.
At Spine & Orthopedic Center, our orthopedic surgeons specialize in the treatment of herniated discs. Our facilities are equipped with top of the line technology for a proper and efficient diagnosis.
Our Spine Surgeons diagnose herniated discs in Boca Raton. For a preferred herniated disc specialist in Boca Raton, call 561-549-9090.
A typical treatment method is an over-the-counter medication. For instance, Naproxen (Aleve) or Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) is an option. However, If your pain does not improve, your doctor might prescribe narcotics. Although these are only be prescribed for a short period. There are side effects of these drugs and must be taken with caution. Contact your doctor immediately if you experience severe side effects from your medications.
Additionally, Cortisone injections should be considered for relief. These are injected directly into the area around the spinal nerves. However, it’s important to note that injection is not a one-time relief. After that, you will be required to get injections every 3-6 months.
Physical therapy is one of the best choices. Your therapist will walk you through exercises for optimal healing. Above all, PT is essential to minimize pain from the herniated disc.
After that, if you’re still experiencing symptoms, considering surgery is the next step. This is essential, especially if you continue to experience the following:
Surgical treatments will next be considered. For instance:
Microdiscectomy. The microdiscectomy a minimally invasive operation, meaning little scarring and minimal downtime. This procedure involves using a surgical microscope and microsurgical techniques. These are used to access and treat the spine by removing part of a herniated disc or disc fragments. As a result, it relieves pressure on the spinal nerve roots or spinal cord.
Laminectomy. Laminectomy (a Spinal Decompression) is a surgical procedure that removes the back wall of the spinal canal, called the lamina. This is performed to create more space for the spinal cord. Therefore, relieving pressure on the spinal cord and/or spinal nerves.
Disc Replacement. A cervical and lumbar disc replacement procedure that removes a damaged spinal disc. Next, it’s replaced with an artificial disc that mimics the original one. This is done to help restore the motion to the spine. A disc replacement is a common alternative to spinal fusion, which permanently joins two vertebrae together.
Spinal Fusion. Spinal fusion is a surgical procedure that helps to relieve pain in the vertebrae (spinal bones.) Performed by fusing two or more vertebrae together, therefore reducing motion. The procedure is done through a bone graft or a metal implant.