Expert Herniated Disc Treatment

A herniated disc occurs when the soft material within the discs between your vertebrae protrudes through the tough outer shell, leading to compression of the nerves exiting your spinal cord within the spinal canal.

Symptoms

• Tingling
• Prickling
• Weakness
• Numbness
• Loss of function

These issues arise due to nerve compression caused by a herniated disc. Sciatica often develops when a herniated disc exerts pressure on the large sciatic nerve, resulting in pain and other symptoms that affect one leg..

The primary causes of herniated discs typically stem from acute injuries and wear and tear on the spine. Acute injuries, such as those sustained during falls or car accidents, can exert significant pressure on the discs, potentially leading to their rupture. Meanwhile, wear and tear over time, known as degenerative disc disease, contributes to disc deterioration, resulting in decreased hydration, thinning, and hardening. As discs lose their ability to provide adequate shock absorption, the tough outer shell may weaken, allowing the softer inner material to protrude. Factors such as inadequate exercise, smoking, and genetic predisposition may also heighten the risk of developing a herniated disc.

Treating herniated discs often begins with conservative measures, which many patients find effective. These methods typically include physical therapy, anti-inflammatory medication, and adjustments to daily activities. In some cases, steroid injections may be recommended to alleviate inflammation and pain. However, if these conservative approaches fail to provide relief, the Center for Minimally Invasive Neurosurgery, specializes in minimally invasive spine surgery (MISS) for herniated discs.

Surgical Options

The available herniated disc surgery options at the Center for Minimally Invasive Neurosurgery, include discectomy and microdiscectomy. During discectomy, the surgeon removes the entire herniated disc, while microdiscectomy involves removing only the damaged disc material. Additionally, spinal fusion may be performed, where a bone graft is implanted in the space left by the herniated disc to stabilize the spine. Alternatively, artificial disc replacement offers an alternative to fusion, allowing for better freedom of movement by implanting a replacement disc between the vertebrae.