Herniated Discs

The vertebrae or bones that make up your spine are separated by disc-like cushions. These discs serve as shock absorbers. When one of these discs is forced out due to a tear, a condition known as a herniated or slipped disc occurs.

Such a herniated disc can aggravate the surrounding nerves in your back, leading to pain or weakness in your arms or legs. In most cases, surgery isn’t required to rectify a herniated disc. It typically impacts your lower back or lumbar spine, but it can also affect your neck or cervical spine.

Symptoms commonly associated with a herniated disc include:

• Pain in the back and neck
• Pain in the arms or legs
• Tingling sensation or numbness
• Muscle weakness

Medical intervention should be sought if your neck or back pain persists beyond a few days, or if the pain radiates down your arm or leg. You should also take note of any numbness, tingling, or weakness.

In many instances, a herniated disc arises due to natural wear and tear related to aging and disc degeneration. With age, your spinal discs lose some of their elasticity and become more prone to tearing, even from minor strains.

The exact cause of a herniated disc may not always be discernible. In certain cases, improper techniques, such as utilizing back muscles instead of your legs while lifting heavy objects, can lead to a herniated disc. While rare, trauma from a fall or a back blow can also cause a herniated disc.

Several factors that may increase your risk of a herniated disc include:

• Being overweight
• Certain occupations (jobs requiring lifting, pulling, pushing, etc.)
• Genetics (family history)

Treatment for a herniated disc may encompass spinal imaging to examine your herniated disc. In more severe cases, an epidural steroid injection or spinal cord stimulation might be required. Our specialists will determine and prescribe the most suitable treatment for you from a broad array of minimally invasive treatment plans and alternative therapies.

Herniated Disc Pain Treatment in North Dallas, TX

We have pain management clinics in North Dallas including Sherman, Rowlett, Greenville & Forney, TX.

Contact Dallas Pain Institute today to arrange a referral and schedule your consultation at the nearest Dallas-area clinic!