What is a Herniated Disc?
A herniated disc, also known as a slipped or ruptured disc, occurs when the soft, gel-like center of a spinal disc pushes out through a tear in its tougher exterior. These discs act as cushions between the vertebrae of your spine. When a disc herniates, it can irritate or compress nearby nerves, leading to significant pain, numbness, or weakness.
Common Causes
Disc herniation is most often the result of gradual, age-related wear and tear known as disc degeneration. As you age, your spinal discs lose some of their water content, making them less flexible and more prone to tearing. Other causes include:
- Improper Lifting: Using your back muscles instead of your legs to lift heavy objects can cause a sudden herniation.
- Trauma: A fall or a blow to the back can, in rare cases, cause a disc to herniate.
- Repetitive Strain: Jobs or activities that involve repetitive lifting, bending, or twisting can put extra stress on the spine.
Symptoms of a Herniated Disc
The location of the pain depends on which part of the spine is affected. Common signs include:
- Arm or Leg Pain: If the herniated disc is in your lower back, you'll typically feel the most intense pain in your buttock, thigh and calf. This is often referred to as sciatica. If it's in your neck, you'll typically feel the most pain in the shoulder and arm.
- Numbness or Tingling: People who have a herniated disc often have radiating numbness or tingling in the body part served by the affected nerves.
- Weakness: Muscles served by the affected nerves tend to weaken. This may cause you to stumble, or affect your ability to lift or hold items.
Our Treatment Approach
A correct diagnosis is key to effective treatment. Dr. Behrens will perform a thorough neurological exam and may order imaging tests like an MRI to confirm the herniation and identify the affected nerves.
Non-Surgical Treatments
The majority of herniated discs can be treated without surgery. The initial focus is on relieving pain and reducing inflammation through methods such as rest, anti-inflammatory medications, physical therapy, and targeted injections.
Surgical Treatments
If symptoms persist or worsen, surgery may be an option. Dr. Behrens specializes in procedures that remove only the portion of the disc that is causing the problem, preserving the spine's stability. These include:
- Microdiscectomy: A minimally invasive procedure to remove the herniated portion of the disc and relieve nerve pressure.
- Disc Replacement: In some cases, particularly in the neck, replacing the damaged disc with an artificial one can relieve symptoms while maintaining motion.