Herniated Disc

Up to 2% of adults in the United States develop a herniated disc each year. If you experience back pain caused by spinal disc damage, turn to The Beloved Medicine Clinic, Pain and Spine in Dallas, Texas. Pain management specialist John Melek, MD, MSC  LD, diagnoses a herniated disc and provides treatments offering long-lasting relief. Schedule an appointment by calling the office or using the online booking feature today.

What is a herniated disc?

A herniated disc, also called a slipped disc, is a condition in which one of your spinal discs leaks or tears because of an injury or wear and tear. The damaged disc can place pressure on your spinal cord and irritate spinal nerves, leading to numbness, weakness, or pain.

More than 3 million people in the United States experience disc herniation each year, and it’s the leading cause of leg, back, and neck pain. A herniated disc often resolves without the need for surgery. 

What are the symptoms of a herniated disc?

Herniated disc symptoms can include:

• Nerve pain
• Sharp pain
• Shooting pain
• Low back pain
• Neck pain
• Arm, leg, or buttocks pain
• Tingling
• Numbness
• Muscle weakness

The discomfort you feel might increase when you bend or turn your neck. 

What are the risk factors for a herniated disc?

The risk of a herniated disc may increase because of:

• Being age 30-50
• Family history of disc herniation 
• Falls
• Traumatic injuries
• Repetitive motions
• Improper lifting of heavy objects
• Smoking
• Sitting for long periods
• Diabetes
• Weight challenges
• Connective tissue disorders
• Frequent driving
• Lack of exercise
• Physically demanding job
• Being male

Disc herniation appears to affect men twice as often as women. 

How is a herniated disc diagnosed?

The team at The Beloved Medicine Clinic, Pain and Spine diagnoses a herniated disc by discussing your medical history, reviewing your symptoms, and completing a physical exam. 

You might undergo a neurological exam, nerve testing, and imaging procedures, such as an MRI, X-rays, or a CT scan.

How is a herniated disc treated?

The treatment that’s best suited for a herniated disc depends on its severity and may include:

• Rest
• Ice or heat
• Physical therapy 
• Massage
• Over-the-counter medications
• Prescription medications
• Spinal injections (epidural or nerve block)
• Endoscopic decompression
• Intradiscal therapy with regenerative materials
• Surgery

In 9 out of 10 people, herniated discs don’t need surgery. However, surgery is an option if other treatments haven’t worked to ease your pain. 

Prevention measures include using proper lifting techniques, maintaining a healthy weight, avoiding high-heeled shoes, and maintaining good posture. Staying physically active and not smoking is also beneficial. 

Schedule an evaluation at The Beloved Medicine Clinic, Pain and Spine by phone or request one online today to treat a herniated disc and ease your discomfort.