Treatment for Herniated Disc

A herniated disc is a common spinal condition that can cause daily back pain, muscle weakness, and limited mobility. If you are struggling with symptoms of a herniated disc, seeking care from a skilled pain doctor can help you get back to living pain-free. At The Pain Experts of Arizona, we proudly serve patients in Phoenix, Scottsdale, Gilbert, and Mesa, offering customized herniated disc treatment options tailored to your needs.

Herniated Disc Overview

Your spine is made up of 33 vertebrae that protect the spinal cord and provide the structural foundation for movement. Between these vertebrae lie intervertebral discs—cushion-like structures that act as shock absorbers. Each disc has a tough outer layer and a gel-like interior.

A herniated disc occurs when the outer wall of the disc tears or splits, allowing the inner material to leak into the spinal canal. This displacement can irritate nearby nerves, leading to pain, numbness, and weakness. Herniated discs can happen anywhere along the spine but are most common in the lower back.

At The Pain Experts of Arizona, our pain specialists focus on treating not only the symptoms but also the underlying causes of herniated discs.

Symptoms of a Herniated Disc

Symptoms of a herniated disc can vary from mild to severe, depending on the location and severity of the herniation. Common symptoms include:

• Localized back pain at the site of the herniation

• Muscle spasms or weakness

• Shooting pain down the buttock and into the leg (sciatica)

• Tingling or “pins and needles” sensation in the legs, feet, or toes

• Numbness or weakness in the lower extremities

• Pain worsened by sitting, standing for long periods, or shifting positions

If you experience sudden loss of bowel or bladder control, it’s crucial to seek emergency medical care immediately.

Diagnosing a Herniated Disc

An accurate diagnosis is key to effective treatment. Your pain doctor at The Pain Experts of Arizona will start with a detailed physical examination and review your medical history. Diagnostic tools may include:

• MRI scans to assess disc damage and nerve involvement

• X-rays to rule out other causes of back pain

• CAT scans for a detailed view of spinal structures

• Electromyograms (EMGs) to test nerve function

• Blood tests to rule out infections or tumors

• Positive straight leg raise test to assess nerve irritation

Proper diagnosis helps tailor your herniated disc treatment plan for long-term relief.

Types of Herniated Discs

There are three main types of disc herniation, each requiring a slightly different treatment approach:

• Disc Protrusion: A bulging disc that has not ruptured. Symptoms may be mild or even absent.

• Disc Extrusion: When the inner gel leaks out but remains connected to the disc. This often leads to nerve compression and more noticeable pain.

• Disc Sequestration: The disc material has broken free into the spinal canal, often causing severe symptoms and sometimes requiring surgical intervention.

Understanding the type of herniation you have helps your pain specialist choose the most effective treatments.

Causes of Herniated Discs

Herniated discs can develop from a variety of factors, including:

• Traumatic injuries, such as car accidents or falls

• Repetitive motion injuries from certain occupations

• Poor lifting techniques, like twisting while lifting heavy objects

• Age-related degeneration and spinal compression

• Sedentary lifestyle and weakened core muscles

• Obesity, which increases spinal pressure

Residents of Phoenix, Scottsdale, Gilbert, and Mesa who are at risk can benefit from early evaluation at a trusted pain clinic like The Pain Experts of Arizona.

Herniated Disc Treatment Options

Treatment for a herniated disc often starts conservatively, with surgery reserved for cases where other treatments fail. Your personalized treatment plan at The Pain Experts of Arizona may include:

Rest and Activity Modification

Initially, rest can reduce inflammation and pain. However, excessive bed rest can weaken muscles, so our pain doctors recommend a balanced approach based on your symptoms.

Anti-Inflammatory Medications

Over-the-counter or prescription non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can ease inflammation and discomfort, making movement more manageable.

Additional Prescription Medications

Muscle relaxants, corticosteroids, or oral pain medications may be prescribed to control severe symptoms, allowing you to participate in rehabilitation exercises.

Physical Therapy and Exercise

A customized physical therapy program strengthens the muscles supporting your spine. Core and back exercises improve posture, flexibility, and resilience, helping to prevent future disc issues.

Epidural Steroid Injections

When pain prevents progress in therapy, an epidural steroid injection can offer powerful relief by decreasing nerve inflammation. Our pain specialists provide expert injection treatments for residents of Phoenix, Scottsdale, Gilbert, and Mesa.

Surgical Intervention

Surgery is considered only after conservative treatments fail. Procedures like discectomy, laminectomy, or spinal fusion may be recommended to repair the spine’s structure and eliminate pressure on the nerves. Our team will help you evaluate if surgery is the right option for you.

Facts About Herniated Discs

• Most herniated discs occur in the lower back, particularly between the L4 and L5 vertebrae.

• Herniated discs are sometimes referred to as “slipped discs,” though they do not actually slip out of place.

• Age, genetics, and occupational risks are significant factors contributing to disc degeneration and herniation.

• Many herniated discs can improve over time without surgery when treated appropriately.

When searching for the best pain clinic to address a herniated disc, it’s important to choose specialists who understand the complexity of spinal conditions.

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Contact

Herniated disc pain can interfere with your daily life, but with the right treatment plan, lasting relief is within reach. Whether you’re managing new symptoms or struggling with chronic disc issues, a pain doctor at The Pain Experts of Arizona can help you restore your mobility and ease your discomfort. Proudly serving Phoenix, Scottsdale, Gilbert, and Mesa, our dedicated team of specialists is committed to providing the highest level of care for herniated disc treatment.

Call us today at 480-950-9393 to schedule your consultation and take the first step toward feeling better.

The Pain Experts of Arizona – Your Partners in Pain Relief and Recovery.

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