If you’re experiencing persistent back or neck pain, you might be dealing with a condition known as a herniated disc. The doctors at Texas Neurosurgery in Dallas, TX, specialize in diagnosing and treating herniated discs to help you find relief and regain your mobility.Â
What Is a Herniated Disc?
A herniated disc happens when the inner gel-like core of an intervertebral disc protrudes through a tear in its tough outer layer. This condition can occur in any part of the spine but is most often seen in the cervical (neck) and lumbar (lower back) regions. When a disc herniates, it can compress nearby nerves, causing symptoms like pain, numbness, or weakness.
Cervical Disc Herniation
Cervical disc herniation involves the discs in the neck region of the spine. These intervertebral discs cushion the vertebrae and allow for smooth movement. When these discs herniate, they can press on the nerves that run through the neck and down the arms.
Symptoms of Cervical Disc Herniation
- Pain that starts in the neck and can radiate down the arm.
- A sensation of numbness or tingling in the shoulder, arm, or hand.
- Weakness in the shoulder, arm, or hand, affecting your ability to perform everyday tasks.
Lumbar Disc Herniation
Lumbar disc herniation occurs in your lower back region. The lumbar spine is particularly prone to herniation due to the significant stress and strain it goes through. A herniated lumbar disc can press on the nerves that travel down your legs, often causing sciatic pain.
Symptoms of Lumbar Disc Herniation
- Persistent pain in the lower back.
- Sciatic pain that radiates from the lower back, through the buttocks, and down one leg.
- Sensations of numbness or tingling in the buttocks, leg, or foot.
- Weakness in the leg or foot, affecting mobility and strength.
Causes of Disc Herniation
During the normal process of aging, the discs in the back and neck lose flexibility and wear down. Additional stress may result in herniation. Such stress may result from obesity, heavy lifting, or sudden traumatic injury. Smoking is also a risk factor for disc herniation.
Treatment Options for Disc Herniation
At Texas Neurosurgery, we offer a range of treatments to alleviate pain and restore function for those suffering from disc herniation:
Non-Surgical Treatments
- Physical Therapy:Â Customized exercises to strengthen muscles, improve flexibility, and reduce pain.
- Medications:Â Anti-inflammatory drugs, pain relievers, and muscle relaxants to manage symptoms.
- Epidural Steroid Injections:Â Injections to reduce inflammation and provide temporary pain relief.
- Lifestyle Modifications:Â Recommendations for weight management, smoking cessation, and ergonomic adjustments.
Surgical Treatments
- Microdiscectomy:Â Minimally invasive surgery to remove the herniated disc portion pressing on the nerve.
- Laminectomy:Â Surgery to remove part of the vertebral bone to relieve nerve pressure.
- Artificial Disc Replacement:Â Replacing the damaged disc with an artificial one to maintain spinal motion.
- Spinal Fusion:Â Fusing two or more vertebrae to stabilize the spine and reduce pain.
Why Choose Texas Neurosurgery, L.L.P.?
Texas Neurosurgery, L.L.P., offers top-notch spinal care with a team of board-certified neurosurgeons who have extensive experience and training from leading medical institutions. Our specialists excel in treating disc herniations, degenerative disorders, and spinal injuries using both conservative and surgical methods.
We also prioritize educating our patients so they understand their condition and treatment options. Our doctors use minimally invasive techniques to reduce recovery time and improve outcomes. At Texas Neurosurgery, personalized care is our priority!
Frequently Asked Questions
How Do I Know Which Treatment Is Right for Me?
The experienced doctors at Texas Neurosurgery will assess your symptoms, medical history, and diagnostic imaging to understand the severity and location of your herniation. Non-surgical treatments like physical therapy, medications, and lifestyle modifications are often the first line of defense for mild to moderate cases. If these methods are ineffective or if you have severe symptoms, we may consider surgical options such as microdiscectomy or spinal fusion. Our team will work with you to create a personalized treatment plan that best suits your needs.
Can a Herniated Disc Heal on Its Own?
Yes, a herniated disc can sometimes heal on its own with rest, physical therapy, and non-surgical treatments. This process can take several weeks to months.
How Long Does It Take to Recover From Herniated Disc Surgery?
Recovery time varies. Minimally invasive procedures like microdiscectomy typically take four to six weeks. More extensive surgeries like spinal fusion may require several months.
What Are the Risks of Not Treating a Herniated Disc?
Not treating a herniated disc can lead to chronic pain, permanent nerve damage, loss of mobility, and, in rare cases, severe complications like cauda equina syndrome. Seeking medical evaluation and treatment is critical.
Trust Texas Neurosurgery for Your Spinal Health Needs
Contact Texas Neurosurgery to determine which treatment options are right for you. Call 214-823-2052 today to book your appointment. Our award-winning doctors look forward to giving you the best possible spinal care in Dallas and Allison, TX.