Herniated Disc Specialist

What is a herniated disc?

A herniated disc is a condition that affects the gel-like cushioning sections of your spinal column. Each disc has a tough exterior with a soft center, and when the disc herniates or ruptures, the soft center can push through the outer layer.

What causes a herniated disc?

There are several factors that can cause the rupturing of a disc. In many cases, the herniated disc is the result of the natural aging process. Wear-and-tear on the discs and degenerative diseases can cause the discs to lose water, making them more susceptible to tears and ruptures, even with minimal movement.

Injuries and traumas, such as a car accident or a fall, can also cause disc damage. Other risk factors for developing a herniated disc include:

• Family history
• Being overweight
• Having a physically demanding job

If you lift or move heavy objects without using the proper safety techniques, you may also be at risk for herniating one or more discs.

What are the symptoms of a herniated disc?

A herniated disc can cause persistent irritation to the nerves surrounding the spine. This can cause chronic pain in your back and numbness or weakness in your legs and arms. In some cases, you can have a herniated disc without any symptoms.

How do you diagnose a herniated disc?

Dr. Regan first reviews your medical history and symptoms. He performs a physical examination of your back, checking for tenderness and assessing your flexibility.

To confirm a diagnosis, Dr. Regan may order imaging tests, such as:

• X-rays
• CT scan
• MRI

He may also use a myelogram test. In this test, dye injected into your spinal fluid can show pressure on your spinal nerves during an X-ray.

Nerve conduction studies are also available to measure the electrical impulses of your nerves, which can determine areas of nerve damage in your spine.

What treatments are available for a herniated disc?

Initially, Dr. Regan may suggest using over-the-counter or prescription medications to control pain and reduce any swelling. He may also suggest cortisone injections to reduce inflammation in the surrounding tissue.

If physical therapy and medications aren’t effective in relieving herniated disc symptoms, Dr. Regan may recommend minimally invasive disc replacement surgery.

End the pain of a herniated disc forever. Call Dr. Regan’s office or use the online booking feature to schedule an appointment.