Herniated Disc

Relief for back, neck, and nerve pain caused by disc herniation

A herniated disc occurs when the soft inner portion of a spinal disc pushes through its outer layer and irritates nearby nerves. This can happen in the cervical (neck), thoracic (mid-back), or lumbar (low back) spine and may cause localized pain, radiating nerve pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness in the arms or legs.

At Resolution Spine & Joint, we focus on precise diagnosis and targeted, minimally invasive treatments designed to reduce inflammation, relieve nerve irritation, and restore function, often helping patients avoid surgery.

Common Symptoms of a Herniated Disc

Patients may experience:

• Neck or low back pain

• Radiating arm or leg pain (radiculopathy / sciatica)

• Numbness or tingling

• Muscle weakness

• Pain that worsens with sitting, bending, coughing, or prolonged activity

Some disc herniations are surprisingly quiet, while others behave like an overdramatic villain pressing directly on a nerve root. The degree of herniation does not always correlate with symptom severity, a tiny protrusion can cause intense pain if positioned just right.

How Herniated Discs Develop

Disc herniations may result from:

• Age-related disc degeneration

• Repetitive strain or heavy lifting

• Sudden twisting or bending injuries

• Poor spinal mechanics and posture

• Traumatic events

Think of spinal discs less like solid cushions and more like hydrated biological shock absorbers. Over time, hydration decreases, structural integrity weakens, and vulnerability to herniation increases, a slow, sneaky mechanical plot twist.

Diagnosis

Accurate diagnosis typically involves:

• Comprehensive history and physical examination

• Neurologic assessment

• MRI imaging when clinically indicated

• Correlation of imaging findings with symptoms

Imaging alone doesn’t tell the full story, many people have disc herniations without pain. The real clinical art is matching symptoms, exam findings, and imaging into one coherent narrative.

Treatment Options at Resolution Spine & Joint

Most herniated discs improve without surgery. Treatment may include:

• Targeted physical therapy and activity modification

• Anti-inflammatory medications when appropriate

• Epidural steroid injections to reduce nerve inflammation

• Selective nerve root blocks for diagnostic and therapeutic relief

• Medial branch blocks or RFA when facet involvement contributes to pain

• Advanced regenerative or interventional options when indicated

Your clinic’s strength — same-day access and procedural precision — fits beautifully here. Herniated disc patients hate waiting. Nerves are impatient creatures.

When to Seek Immediate Evaluation

Urgent assessment is recommended if symptoms include:

• Progressive weakness

• Significant balance problems

• Loss of bowel or bladder control

• Saddle numbness

Those signs suggest possible severe nerve compression and require prompt evaluation.

Why Choose Resolution Spine & Joint

• Compassionate, patient-centered care

• Advanced minimally invasive spine procedures

• Rapid access to evaluation and treatment

• Individualized treatment plans focused on function and quality of life

Your differentiation — access, empathy, and procedural expertise — matters enormously here because disc herniation patients often feel dismissed or stuck in treatment limbo.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do all herniated discs require surgery?
No. The majority improve with conservative or interventional treatment.

Can a herniated disc heal on its own?
Yes. The body can reabsorb disc material over time, and inflammation can settle.

Is exercise safe with a herniated disc?
Appropriate movement is usually beneficial. Guided therapy helps avoid aggravation.

How long does recovery take?
Many patients improve within weeks to months, though timelines vary.

References

• North American Spine Society (NASS)

• American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS)

• National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS)