Herniated Disc Management
We Can Restore Your Long-Term Spine Health
Discs are flat, rubbery cushions that maintain spinal flexibility and act as shock absorbers for the spine. A herniated disc (slipped/ruptured disc) is one of the most widespread causes of leg, neck and back pain.
Herniated discs occur when pressure from the vertebrae impacts the discs in between. The disc’s soft, gel-like center (nucleus pulposus) pushes through a weak or damaged section of its outer layer (annulus). The herniated disc then presses on nerves, resulting in what can be severe pain.
Herniated discs usually occur in the lower (lumbar) section of the spine, but they also occur in the neck (cervical) and thoracic spine. No matter where the condition occurs, herniated disc management is required as an intervention treatment to help restore spine strength and prevent long-term damage.
Causes
Reduce your risk.
Several factors can contribute to a herniated disc, including:● Aging and degeneration: Herniated discs occur more often in people between the ages of 35 and 55.● Excessive weight: Doctors believe that extra weight increases the stress on the lumbar spine.● Physically demanding work: A sudden strain from heavy lifting or sudden twisting.● Gender: Men have twice the risk for herniated discs compared to women.● Family history: Disc-degeneration can be hereditary and is associated with an increased risk for herniation.
Symptoms
Pinpoint your pain.
Some of the symptoms you may experience with a herniated disc include:● Arm or leg pain: If your herniated disc is in your lower back, you will feel the most intense pain in your buttocks, thigh, calf, and foot. If your herniated disc is in your neck, the pain will usually be concentrated in the arm and shoulder. This pain may shoot into your arm or leg if you cough, sneeze or move in a certain way.● Numbness or tingling in the affected area.● Weakness: Muscles connected to the affected nerves tend to weaken. This could cause you to fall or be unable to lift or hold everyday items.You could also have a herniated disc without knowing it. Some people show no symptoms, but the condition will show up on a scan.
Diagnosis
Get the answers you need.
The orthopaedic team at the Kayal Pain & Spine Center specializes in herniated disc management. Our award-winning experts will direct the diagnosis and treatment of herniated discs, regardless of location and severity. We provide world-class treatment for patients in Bergen County and beyond. Diagnosis is achieved through physical examinations and imaging tools, such as X-rays, MRIs, and CT scans.
Treatment
Life’s too short to put up with pain.
If conservative treatments and physical therapy are unsuccessful, surgery may be needed to repair the disc herniation. If your herniated disc remains persistently painful, a visit to a Bergen County spine specialist is advised. With state-of-the-art diagnostic tools, the award-winning experts at the Kayal Pain & Spine Center will tailor an appropriate treatment plan for your unique case. Herniated disc management is based upon the specific herniated disc(s), along with your age, physical condition and other medical issues.