What is a Disc Herniation?
A disc herniation, also known as a herniated disc or slipped disc, is a medical condition that occurs in the spine, specifically in the intervertebral discs. The spine is made up of a series of bones called vertebrae, and between each pair of vertebrae is a cushion-like structure called an intervertebral disc. These discs are composed of a tough, outer layer called the annulus fibrosus and a gel-like inner core called the nucleus pulposus.
A disc herniation happens when the inner core of the disc (the nucleus pulposus) pushes through a tear or weak spot in the outer layer (the annulus fibrosus). This can lead to various symptoms and complications, depending on the location and size of the herniation, as well as the degree of pressure it places on nearby nerves or the spinal cord.
Common symptoms of a disc herniation may include:
- Pain: Typically, herniated discs cause localized pain in the area of the spine where the herniation occurs. For example, if the herniation is in the lower back (lumbar spine), it can cause lower back pain. If it’s in the neck (cervical spine), it can cause neck pain.
- Radiating Pain: Often, the pain can radiate into other parts of the body served by the affected nerves. For example, a herniation in the lower back can lead to pain that radiates down the leg (sciatica), while one in the neck can cause pain in the arm.
- Numbness and Tingling: Herniated discs can compress nerves, leading to numbness and tingling sensations in the area served by those nerves.
- Muscle Weakness: In more severe cases, muscle weakness or difficulty with coordination may occur, especially if the herniated disc is compressing the spinal cord.
- Changes in bowel and bladder function: In some instances, bowel or bladder function may be affected due to nerve compression. This is usually an indication for surgery.
Diagnosis is typically made through a combination of medical history, physical examination, and imaging studies like MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) or CT (Computed Tomography) scans.
Treatment for a disc herniation can range from conservative measures like rest, physical therapy, and pain medications to more invasive options such as epidural injections or surgery, depending on the severity of symptoms and the specific circumstances of the herniation. The choice of treatment is usually determined on a case-by-case basis although most patients can successfully be treated with conservative treatment options. When surgery is indicated, Dr. Webb carefully removes the herniated disc with special instruments to “decompress” or relieve the compression. This usually alleviates the nerve pain. Please note that not all of the disc that resides in between your vertebra is removed, only the small portion of disc that is compressing your nerves.
Learn about minimally invasive options to treat disc herniations here.