A herniated disc, often caused by weakened disc walls and pressure, can result in pain when the inner disc material leaks out, irritating nearby nerves. Trauma and degeneration are common factors contributing to this condition.

Symptoms of a Herniated Disc: Herniated discs predominantly affect the lower lumbar levels (L4-L5 and L5-S1), causing pain down the arms or legs due to nerve compression. Other symptoms may include weakness, decreased reflexes, numbness, and tingling in the fingers and toes.

Herniated Disc Treatment Options:

Nonsurgical treatments are typically the initial approach, with pain often improving within six weeks.

These noninvasive treatment options for Herniated Disc include:

• Physical Therapy For Herniated Disc

• Chiropractic Care For Herniated Disc

• Injections For Herniated Disc

  
  

Should severe pain and symptoms persist beyond this period, or if weakness is present, surgical consultation may be considered to alleviate the symptoms associated with the herniated disc.

Herniated Disc Management:

Regular chiropractic care, with monthly visits after completing the initial treatment plan and symptom resolution, is advisable. This maintenance approach helps mitigate the degenerative effects on the spine by restoring normal joint movement.

What is a Herniated Disc?

Between each spinal vertebra, there are small cushioning discs, consisting of a gel-like interior encased in a tough outer shell. These discs absorb shock and enable spinal flexibility.

However, as you age, these discs become less flexible and more susceptible to injury. Herniated discs occur when the outer shell weakens or tears, causing the gel interior to bulge.

Signs of a Herniated Disc:

Herniated discs might exhibit no symptoms, but nerve compression due to disc herniation can lead to various issues, including:

• Lower Back Pain

• Radiating pain in arms, hands, legs, or feet

• Numbness or weakness in extremities

• Tingling, aching, or burning sensations in the back or extremities

Symptoms may worsen at night, with specific movements, prolonged sitting or standing, or after extended walking.

Diagnosis of Herniated Discs: Providers at NYPMD New York Spine Centers can typically diagnose herniated discs based on your description of symptoms, physical exams, and, if needed, X-rays or MRIs to precisely locate the herniated disc and assess related concerns.

Treatment plans are tailored to individual needs and may include physical therapy, chiropractic care, aquatic therapy, postural correction, spinal decompression, medications, spine injections, or traction. If symptoms persist after six weeks of treatment, surgical consultation may be considered.

Contact NYPMD New York Spine Centers for expert assessments and herniated disc treatment in the mentioned regions.