Herniated Disc Treatment

Experiencing shooting pains in your back, arms, or legs? Numbness and tingling may be signs of a disc herniation. Many people ignore these symptoms until daily life becomes unbearable. If this sounds familiar, it’s time to consult a spine specialist. Early intervention is key to managing disc herniation and preventing the need for surgery. Seeking help promptly can increase your chances of restoring mobility and reducing pain through conservative treatments.

Dr. Andrew Lee, a board-certified orthopedic spine surgeon in Las Vegas, has over a decade of experience in diagnosing and treating disc herniation and other spinal conditions. With a focus on preserving natural spine function and enhancing quality of life, Dr. Lee offers personalized, patient-centered care. If you’re struggling with back pain, Dr. Lee’s expertise can help you explore non-surgical options, and, if necessary, provide advanced surgical solutions to relieve your pain and get you back to living life comfortably.

Understanding Disc Herniation

A disc herniation occurs when one of the soft, cushion-like discs between your vertebrae pushes out of place, often pressing on nearby nerves. These spinal discs act as shock absorbers, protecting your vertebrae during movement. However, over time, wear and tear or injury can cause these discs to slip or rupture, leading to pain that radiates throughout the body. Depending on where the herniation occurs, you might feel discomfort in your lower back, neck, or extremities.

Symptoms of Disc Herniation

Symptoms of a herniated disc can vary depending on the location of the affected disc. While some individuals experience no symptoms, common signs of disc herniation include:

  • Pain in the arms or legs- Often caused by cervical or lumbar herniations affecting nerves connected to your limbs.
  • Sharp or shooting pain- Sudden, severe pain, particularly when making quick movements or sneezing.
  • Numbness or tingling- A result of nerve compression, often felt in the arms, legs, or back.
  • Weakness- Difficulty in performing daily activities such as walking or holding objects.

Since herniated discs affect the nerves, pain or numbness may only appear on one side of your body.

Causes of Disc Herniation

Disc herniation can happen for various reasons, including age-related disc degeneration, physical strain, or improper lifting techniques. Some common risk factors include:

  • Age- Individuals between 35 and 50 are most at risk.
  • Physical activity- Repetitive movements, heavy lifting, or sedentary jobs can contribute to disc herniation.
  • Lifestyle- Factors like smoking and obesity can increase the likelihood of developing this condition.

Disc herniation may develop gradually or after a single event, with many patients unable to identify the exact cause of their symptoms.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Dr. Andrew Lee begins by evaluating your symptoms and conducting a physical examination to pinpoint the cause of your discomfort. Imaging tests such as MRI or CT scans may be used to confirm a disc herniation. After diagnosis, Dr. Lee will develop a treatment plan tailored to your condition, which may include:

  • Physical therapy- Strengthening exercises to support spinal health and alleviate pain.
  • Medication- Anti-inflammatory drugs or muscle relaxants to manage pain and reduce swelling.
  • Injections- Targeted spinal injections to relieve pain and inflammation.
  • Surgery- If conservative treatments do not yield results, Dr. Lee offers minimally invasive surgical options designed to restore spine function with shorter recovery times and reduced risk of complications.

When to Seek Treatment

Ignoring back pain can make a disc herniation worse over time. Increased pain, persistent numbness, or weakness can significantly impact your quality of life. If you experience symptoms for several weeks or find that your daily activities are affected, it’s time to seek expert care.
Dr. Andrew Lee is committed to helping patients manage their back pain effectively, whether through conservative methods or advanced surgical treatments. Don’t let a herniated disc control your life – schedule a consultation with Dr. Lee and begin your journey to recovery today.

A Note from Dr. Lee

Hello, I’m Dr. Andrew Lee, an orthopedic spine surgeon with over 10 years of experience in minimally invasive spine surgery. I’ve dedicated my career to helping patients regain mobility and live pain-free. I understand the challenges of spine-related pain, and my goal is not just to help you recover but to empower you to live a stronger, healthier life. Together, we’ll work to get you back to the life you deserve.