HERNIATED DISC

A herniated disc can cause pain, affect balance, and limit mobility. At Re Innovative Neuroscience Institute, we use advanced technology and world-class expertise to ease your pain and repair your spine.

The team is committed to restoring your health and relieving your pain from herniated discs.

Call the office at (941) 893-2688 to set up a consultation appointment and begin the path toward healing.

WHAT IS IT?

A herniated disc refers to problems with discs, the soft cushions that lie between the vertebrae in your spine. Herniated discs are also sometimes called slipped or ruptured discs.

Each spinal disc has a soft center encased by a tough exterior. When the disc herniates, the inner soft part pushes through a crack or tear in the tough exterior. Since the shape and size are affected by this, a herniated disc can irritate nearby nerves.

Many herniated discs cause no symptoms at all, but others can cause pain, numbness, or weakness in one or both arms or legs. This may also affect balance and mobility.

WHAT CAUSES IT?

Herniated discs most often result from disc degeneration, the gradual wear of discs over time. With age, spinal discs lose water content, making them more likely to tear or rupture due to decreased flexibility. Once this occurs, a simple twist, tweak, or strain can lead to herniation in degenerated discs.

Improper form when lifting heavy objects is a common cause. In rare cases, a fall or blow to your back can also cause herniated discs.

In addition to age, there are a few factors that increase the likelihood of a herniated disc.

Risk is associated with:

Excess body weight - from increasing the stress load on your lower back
Occupations that demand repetitive lifting, pushing, pulling, or bending
Heredity

While anyone can get a herniated disc, these factors increase the chances of getting one.

HOW CAN IT BE TREATED?

The physicians at Re Innovative Neuroscience Institute perform a physical examination to test reflexes, muscle strength, mobility, and sensitivity to touch. Based on results and patient medical history, this is usually enough to determine a herniated disc. In other cases, imaging such as X-rays, CT scans, and MRI exams, or nerve tests (called electromyograms) may be necessary.

If diagnosed with a herniated disc, you and your physician may consider a number of options. One more conservative option includes avoiding sensitive body positions, following an exercise regimen, and taking some pain medication. Another option includes physical therapy and possibly surgery, which is a specialty of the Re team.

While surgery is rare, Dr. Farahvar, Dr. Olivero, and Dr. Wang are experts. In most cases, the surgeon partially removes the portion of the affected disc that is causing problems. In other cases, the disc may be removed entirely and the vertebrae fused for stability. An artificial disc that mimics the function of the healthy one may also be implanted.

If a herniated disc is disrupting your life, call the office at (941) 893-2688 to schedule a consultation appointment.

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