Spinal Disc Herniation

How does spinal disc herniation occur?

There are cushioning discs between each of the vertebrae of your spine that protect your bones and prevent them from rubbing up against each other. These discs have tough, durable exteriors and soft centers, similar to a jelly doughnut structure. When a disc becomes herniated — also called slipped or ruptured — it means that the disc has moved out of proper alignment as the softer interior pushes through the protective exterior.ribro

Spinal disc herniation, which puts pressure on your nerves, can occur for a variety of reasons, including:

• Being overweight
• Sedentary lifestyle
• Age-related wear-and-tear
• Trauma, such as a car accident  
• Improper lifting by using your back muscles

Even though spinal disc herniation can occur at any age, you’re more likely to suffer from this painful condition if you’re a man between the ages of 20-50.

What are the symptoms of spinal disc herniation?

Any of the discs throughout your spine can become herniated, although this condition tends to affect the discs in your lower back. Common signs and symptoms of a herniated disc include:

• Sciatica, or pain that shoots through your buttocks and down your leg
• Numbness, tingling, or burning in your extremities
• Muscle weakness in your arms or legs

Spinal disc herniation can even lead to loss of bladder or bowel control, which can cause embarrassing bathroom accidents. Before your herniated disc starts to lower your quality of life, get started on treatment at Blue Ridge Pain Management Associates.

Can I get treatment for spinal disc herniation?

Yes. With the help of the top-rated pain specialists at Blue Ridge Pain Management Associates, you can get relief from spinal disc herniation starting with your very first appointment. Your herniated disc treatment plan may include:

• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
• Image-guided nerve blocks and injections  
• Spinal cord stimulation (SCS) implants
• Intrathecal pain medicine pumps
• Transforaminal epidural injections
• Lumbar and cervical epidurals
• Muscle relaxer medications
• Physical therapy

Your dedicated pain specialist at Blue Ridge Pain Management Associates educates you about your different herniated disc treatment options and which solution may be right for you, so you can be involved in every step of the decision-making process regarding your health care.

Get treatment for spinal disc herniation by booking an evaluation at Blue Ridge Pain Management Associates today. Click on the online scheduler or call your nearest office.