What is a Herniated Disc?
A
herniated disc, or a slipped disc, occurs in the spine, particularly in the cervical
or lumbar spine, resulting in a pinched nerve. This can produce extreme
symptoms of pain in the neck, arm, lower back, or leg. The discs themselves
are tough with a soft center and are located between the vertebrae that
make up the spinal column, acting as shock absorbers. However, even small
amounts of pressure to this area can produce symptoms of pain, numbness,
and weakness.
Other factors that may weaken or inflict damage to the discs include:
- Traumatic injury
- Incorrectly lifting
- Heavy lifting
- Repetitive twisting movements
- Smoking
- High impact activities
- Excessive weight
Symptoms of a Herniated Disc
Depending on where the injury is located, symptoms of a herniated disc may vary from person to person. Some of the most common symptoms include lower back pain or leg pain, which can range from mild to severe. Other symptoms of a herniated disc might also include:
- Pain or weakness in one or both legs
- Burning or tingling sensation in the buttocks, leg, or foot
- Pain during certain movements
- In rare cases, loss of bladder or bowel control
Diagnosing the Problem
Having a proper diagnosis is crucial to properly treating the pain of a herniated disc. This is done through a thorough clinical evaluation, an examination of a patient’s medical history, and extensive testing such as x-rays or an MRI.
With some of the new and advanced cutting edge treatments that are now available to treat herniated discs, it is important for patients to know that surgery is not always necessary. In fact, about 90% of patients suffering from a herniated disc are able to successfully treat their condition and relieve their pain without the need for surgery.
Discover a Pain-Free Life at ProMed
Some rehabilitative centers offer treatments that might be hit-and-miss, but at the ProMED Pain Rehabilitation Institute, we provide patients effective alternatives to drugs or surgery. Surgery is painful and can lead to significant downtime, and might produce some unwanted side effects. Our non-surgical, comprehensive approach is not only safe, but clinically proven.
If you are experiencing pain caused by a herniated disc, you do not have to continue to suffer. Our Non-Surgical Spine Center is here for you and will address your concerns and start you on your path to a life without these painful symptoms.
Find out if this treatment is right for you and call the ProMED Pain Rehabiliation Institute today at (630) 426-3270. We also treat chronic back pain, neck pain, sciatica, leg pain, bulging disc, spinal stenosis, degenerative disc disease, and the effects of failed back surgery.