Conditions We Treat
Herniated Disc
The good news about herniated discs is that most cases resolve themselves. But when non-surgical treatment isn't effective, the doctors of The Spine Center of Louisiana are current with all surgical techniques for treating herniated discs.
What Is a Herniated Disc?
Spinal discs sit between the vertebrae of the spine, cushioning and permitting movement of these bones. Discs have a tough outer casing around a softer, pliable interior. Whether described as slipped, ruptured, or herniated, the condition results when the inner tissue pushes through a tear in the outer layer.
The Good News First
Herniated discs may not cause any symptoms at all, healing in time without you being aware there was a problem. Most cases resolve themselves, and surgery only enters the picture when pain or numbness doesn't clear with time or conservative treatment.
However, given that the nerves of the spinal column are close to the spinal discs, herniations often press on and irritate some of these nerves. This causes pain, weakness, or numbness, typically in the arms or legs, but other body systems may be affected as well. It depends on which disc is herniated as well as which nerve is irritated.
What Symptoms Do Herniated Discs Cause?
Most disc problems occur in the lumbar spine, in the lower back, though neck problems, at the cervical spine, may also occur. The most common symptoms are radiated sensations, in the legs for lumbar disc issues, and in the arms for cervical issues. These sensations may be painful, but it's also possible to feel numbness or weakness in the limbs without pain sensations.
Disc degeneration through the aging process is a common source of disc problems, as discs lose flexibility over time, becoming more prone to damage. Since the time between herniation and pain symptoms may not be immediate, it's often hard to know what exactly caused your disc rupture. If the pain or numbness doesn't clear with time or conservative treatment, surgery may be necessary.
How Are Herniated Discs Treated Surgically?
Typically, there are four types of procedures used with herniated discs.
Discectomy
The most common surgical approach. Some or all of the affected disc is removed. A less invasive form, called a microdiscectomy, may be possible in some cases.
Learn moreLaminotomy
Minimally invasive, making an opening in the lamina, an arch in the vertebrae, to relieve pressure on the affected nerve.
Learn moreSpinal Fusion
Permanently connects two or more vertebrae together with screws and rods or transplanted bone tissue. Surgery is invasive and requires longer recovery time.
Learn moreArtificial Disc Replacement
May be practical if you have problems in the lower back, with only one affected disc and no signs of arthritis or other bone deterioration.
Learn moreIf you are suffering from a herniated disc, request an appointment with The Spine Center of Louisiana today to find out how the team can help you resolve your pain once and for all.
Why It Hurts
How a Disc Herniates
From cushion to nerve pressure, here's what happens inside your spine.
The Cushion
Discs sit between your vertebrae with a tough outer casing around a softer, pliable interior.
The Tear
The inner tissue pushes through a tear in the outer layer. This is the herniation.
Nerve Pressure
The nearby nerves of the spinal column are pressed and irritated by the herniation.
Radiating Symptoms
Pain, weakness, or numbness travels into the arms or legs, depending on the disc and nerve involved.
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Related Conditions and Treatments
Herniated discs often connect to these conditions and procedures.
Resolve Your Pain Once and For All
Whether your herniated disc needs time, conservative care, or surgery, our doctors will guide you to the right answer. Urgent, same-day appointments are often available.