Herniated Disc

What is a Herniated Disc?

A herniated disc (also known as a bulging disc or slipped disc) is a common problem that occurs in the lower back or neck. The intervertebral discs lie between the vertebrae (spinal bones) and act as shock absorbers to take the pressure off the spine during weight-bearing activities. 

When a portion of the disc protrudes into the spinal canal, it is known as a herniated disc. Oftentimes, a herniated disc can pinch a spinal nerve and cause back or neck pain as well as pain that radiates into the extremities. 

A herniated disc can occur when lifting an object without proper form or when lifting an object that is too heavy. It can also occur as a result of other spinal conditions including: 

• Degenerative Disc Disease 
• Osteoarthritis of the spine

At OrthoNeuro, our Board Certified Spine Specialists have helped thousands of patients with herniated discs live active and healthy lives using the latest non-surgical and surgical procedures. 

The symptoms of a herniated disc may include the following: 

• Pain in the neck or lower back 
• Radiating pain down arms or legs (such as sciatica pain)
• Weakness in the hands or feet 
• Numbness in the hands or feet 
• Burning in the hands or feet 

If you are experiencing symptoms of a herniated disc it is best to make an appointment with one of the Board Certified Spine Specialists at OrthoNeuro as soon as possible. Delaying treatment may cause the symptoms to become worse or even develop other spine conditions such as scoliosis.

Treatment Options for a Lumbar or Cervical Herniated Disc 

At OrthoNeuro, a herniated disc can usually be treated using non-surgical treatment options such as the following: 

• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs 
• Activity modification 
• Physical Therapy 
• Injections 

In some instances where non-surgical treatment options have not relieved the symptoms of a herniated disc, your OrthoNeuro Spine Specialist may recommend a Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery to remove the herniated disc or bone fragments that are causing pain. At OrthoNeuro, our Board Certified Spine Surgeons are experts in Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery.