Each year, more than three million people in the U.S. suffer from a herniated disc, a spinal condition that commonly affects the neck or lower back. A herniated disc occurs when the soft cushion (disc) that separates the bones of your spinal column (vertebrae) bulges or slips out of position. This puts pressure on surrounding nerves, resulting in pain, weakness and limited mobility in your neck, back or legs. Speak with an expert about herniated discs.
Signs and Symptoms
While many herniated discs heal on their own without causing more than a dull backache, severe cases may result in pain, tingling, stiffness or numbness. These sensations are felt most intensely in the area of the herniated disc, while also radiating to other parts of the body, such as your shoulders, arms, buttocks or legs.
Risk Factors and Preventions
Factors that may increase your risk of experiencing a herniated disc include the following.
- Body Weight: Individuals with excessively high body weights have a greater risk of back issues such as a herniated disc in the lower back (lumbar spine).
- Family History: Individuals with a close biological relative who has had a herniated disc are at greater risk of developing one themselves.
- Tobacco Use: A history of smoking can contribute to a herniated disc.
- Lifestyle: Sitting for several hours every day can increase the risk of having a herniated disc at some point in your life—particularly if you’re not exercising regularly.
How We Diagnose Herniated Discs
Our experts use the following procedures to diagnose a herniated disc.
- Physical Exam: In most cases, our experts can accurately diagnose herniated discs by examining the physical symptoms of the condition.
- X-ray: A common medical imaging procedure, X-rays use radiation to capture colorless images of your bones, joints and soft tissue.
- Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI): A combination of a magnetic field and radio waves creates three-dimensional images of specific areas of your body.
- Computerized Tomography (CT) Scan: Certified experts use computer-processed X-rays to generate a scan of your body in “slices” to create highly accurate images.
Treatment Options
Our orthopedic experts consider several factors when outlining your treatment plan, including your age, medical history and the severity of your case. For less advanced cases of herniated discs, our experts may recommend conservative treatment approaches such as applying a hot or cold compress, avoiding bed rest and continuing routine activity at a slower pace. Nonsteroid anti-inflammatory medications, neuropathic medications, cortisone injections or muscle relaxers could also be prescribed to help manage pain. Severe cases may require physical therapy. Severe cases of herniated discs may require surgery to relieve pain.
Speak with an expert about treatment options for herniated discs.