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FAQs:

What is a Herniated Disc Specialist?

A herniated disc specialist is a specialist who offers comprehensive diagnosis and provides treatment plans that address your specific pain areas. They can also help alleviate herniated disc symptoms relief in the long run. Their specialized knowledge and years of experience are potent tools to guide you in your fight against the excruciating pain of a herniated disc.

What is a Herniated Disc?

A herniated disc (also called bulged, slipped, or ruptured) is a fragment of the disc nucleus that is pushed out of the annulus, into the spinal canal through a tear or rupture in the annulus. Discs that become herniated usually are in an early stage of degeneration. The spinal canal has limited space, which is inadequate for the spinal nerve and the displaced herniated disc fragment. Due to this displacement, the disc presses on spinal nerves, often producing pain, which may be severe. Herniated discs can occur in any part of the spine. Herniated discs are more common in the lower back (lumbar spine), but also occur in the neck (cervical spine). The area in which pain is experienced depends on what part of the spine is affected.

What Does a Herniated Disc Feel Like?

Herniated disks can occur in any area of the spine, but they are most common in the lower back (the lumbar spine), just above the hips. The pain may spread from the back to the buttocks, thighs, and even your calves. Herniated disks in the neck (the cervical spine) may extend to the shoulder and arm. Pain in the lumbar or cervical spine can feel sharp or burning. It's common to have numbness and tingling that affects the area of pain and then radiates through a nearby limb. You'll likely feel weakened muscles near the source of pain, too. Discomfort from a herniated disk usually worsens when you're active and lessens when you're resting. Even coughing, sneezing, and sitting can worsen your symptoms because they put pressure on pinched nerves.

Can a Herniated Disc Heal on Its Own?

The answer to this question can be complicated, as the answer is entirely dependent upon your unique discherniation. Some herniated discs are quite severe and may require surgical intervention, while some herniated discs are so mild, that you may not even realize you have one to begin with. Most herniated discs will inevitably end up healing on their own. Yet, what if your herniated disc is reaching the point where it’s still not fully healed after an extended period? This is where we may be able to help you recover fully and become pain-free through a variety of strategies.

How Long for a Herniated Disc to Heal Without Surgery?

While recovery from a herniated disc looks different for everyone, many cases of the condition heal in about six weeks without surgery. But even so, the symptoms can interfere with a person’s daily life. That’s why there are several treatment options to explore to accelerate the healing process and reduce pain. Be sure to consult with your healthcare provider to determine which treatment will work best for you. Their recommendations will be based on symptoms and the severity of your condition.

What Happens If a Herniated Disc Goes Untreated?

Herniated discs are serious health problems. Because you’re dealing with a spinal injury, you could be at risk for permanent paralysis or long-term chronic pain if you leave your herniated disc untreated.  For one thing, leaving a herniated disc untreated can result in nerve damage associated with your bladder or bowels, and this could mean permanent urinary or fecal incontinence.  You could also be at risk for saddle bag anesthesia. This is a condition in which you lose sensation in your inner thighs, around your rectum, and down the back of your legs.

How Painful is a Herniated Disc?

Though some people with a herniated disk feel no discomfort, others who have this condition may find that hard to believe. For them, the sharp, intense pain that radiates down their leg or arm makes it nearly impossible to work, exercise, or do much of anything at all.

What is the Difference Between a Herniated Disc and a Bulging Disc?

Although both injuries can cause similar pain in the back, neck, and limbs, they still have distinctive differences that set them apart from one another. The herniated disc involves a complete tear or rupture of the annulus and the subsequent leakage of the inner part of the disc. The bulging disc refers to the nucleus pushing against the annulus, but not emerging out of the disc’s exterior. The tear in the exterior serves as one of the most distinguishing differences between the two injuries.

Furthermore, the symptoms of a bulging disc oftentimes go unnoticed until the symptoms become more severe. In the event of a bulging disc, patients may neglect seeking help until the pain has reached an unbearable level. On the other hand, the symptoms of the herniated disc appear immediately, manifesting as acute pain in the body.

Is Walking Good for Herniated Disc?

Yes, walking is an excellent physical activity for a herniated disc as long as walking does not repeatedly inflame the symptomatic area.  The human body is built to move and walking is a natural functional movement.  The goal is to keep the human body moving and functioning at the highest level without causing additional pain or inflammation.

When Do You Need Surgery for Herniated Disc?

Surgery is typically not the first line of treatment for slipped or herniated discs. In most cases, conservative treatments such as physical therapy, medications, and injections can effectively manage symptoms and help patients avoid surgery. That being said, there are situations where slipped disc surgery may be necessary. These situations include:

1. Severe pain: If the pain caused by a slipped disc is severe and disabling, surgery may be necessary to alleviate pain and restore function.

2. Weakness or numbness: If a slipped disc is causing weakness, numbness, or tingling in the legs or arms, surgery may be necessary to prevent permanent nerve damage.

3. Bowel or bladder dysfunction: If a slipped disc is causing bowel or bladder dysfunction, surgery may be necessary to prevent long-term complications.

4. Lack of improvement with conservative treatments: If symptoms do not improve with conservative treatments after several weeks or months, surgery may be necessary to achieve relief.

Herniated Disc Symptoms

It’s common for a herniated disk in your lower back to cause “sciatic nerve” pain (sciatica). This sharp pain usually shoots down one side of your buttocks into your leg and sometimes your foot. Other symptoms of a slipped disk in your lower back may include:

- Back pain

- Tingling or numbness in your legs and/or feet

- Muscle weakness

Symptoms of a bulging disk in your neck may include:

- Pain near or between your shoulder blades.

- Pain that travels to your shoulder, arm, and sometimes your hand and fingers.

- Neck pain, especially in the back and on the sides of your neck.

- Pain that increases when bending or turning your neck.

- Numbness or tingling in your arms.

What Causes a Herniated Disc?

Each disk in your spine has a soft, gel-like center and a firmer outer layer, kind of like a jelly doughnut. With time, the outer layer weakens and can crack. A herniated disk happens when the inner “jelly” substance pushes through the crack and presses on your spinal cord. The leaked material may press on nearby spinal nerves, causing the symptoms of a herniated disk.

Several factors can contribute to a disk rupture. Herniated disk causes include:

- Aging

- Traumatic injuries, like falls

- Performing repetitive bending or twisting motions

- Improper lifting of heavy objects

How to Diagnose a Herniated Disc

The best way to tell if you have a herniated disk is to see your doctor. They’ll likely do a physical exam to find the source of your pain, which is usually the only test you’ll need to confirm a diagnosis. Your doctor will check your back or neck for sore or painful spots. They may ask you to lie on your back and lift or move your legs or neck in various directions. 

They may also check:

1. Your reflexes at the knee and ankle(for lower back pain) or your arms and shoulders (for neck pain)

2. Your leg or arm strength, depending on the area of pain

3. How you walk on your heels and toes

4. Whether you can feel light touches or vibrations

If your doctor wants to rule out other sources of your pain or pinpoint specific nerves that are aggravated, they may do further testing, including:

1. X-rays. While a standard X-ray can't show if you have a herniated disk, it can show your doctor the outline of your spine and rule out whether your pain is caused by something else, such as a fracture or tumor.

2. Myelogram. This test uses dye injected into your spinal fluid and an X-ray to locate the pressure on the spinal cord.

3. CT scan. A computerized tomography (CT) scan takes several X-rays from different angles and combines them to create images of your spinal cord and the structures surrounding it.

4. MRI. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) uses radio waves, a magnetic field, and a computer to create detailed 3D images of the spinal cord and surrounding areas. MRI images can locate the position of the herniated disk, look inside it, and determine which nerves are affected.

5. Electromyogram (EMG). Your doctor might use these tests to see if any nerves are damaged or compressed. The EMG test uses a device to detect the tiny amount of electricity muscle cells make when stimulated by nerves connected to them. A needle electrode put into a muscle records its electrical activity and looks for anything that isn’t as it should be.

6. Nerve conduction studies (NCS). NCS  are often done simultaneously with the EMG. In this test, an electrode stimulates the nerves with tiny electrical impulses at one point on the body while other electrodes detect the impulses at a different point. The time it takes for the electrical impulses to travel between electrodes tells your doctor whether there is nerve damage.

Risk Factors for Developing a Herniated Disc

The following are the risk factors for developing a herniated disc:

1. Gender. Men between the ages of 30 and 50 are most likely to have a herniated disc.

2. Improper lifting. Using your back muscles to lift heavy objects, instead of your legs, can cause a herniated disc. Twisting while you lift can also make your back vulnerable. Lifting with your legs, not your back, may protect your spine.

3. Weight. Being overweight puts added stress on the discs in your lower back.

4. Repetitive activities that strain your spine. Many jobs are physically demanding. Some require constant lifting, pulling, bending, or twisting. Using safe lifting and movement techniques can help protect your back.

5. Frequent driving. Staying seated for long periods, plus the vibration from the car engine can put pressure on your spine and intervertebral discs.

6. Sedentary lifestyle. Regular exercise is important in preventing many medical conditions, including a herniated disc.

7. Smoking. It is believed that smoking lessens the oxygen supply to the disc and causes more rapid degeneration.

Naturally, it is recommended to stay healthy by not quitting smoking, eating a healthy diet that is rich in calcium and vitamins, and exercising regularly. In addition, it is important to be conscious of your posture when you’re walking and when you’re sitting.

How to Heal a Herniated Disc Quickly

Fortunately, 80 to 90% of people with herniated discs can recover by only relying on over-the-counter pain medications, according to Yale Medicine. However, some people experience continuous, even debilitating pain.  Before considering surgery, try the following spinal disc healing techniques.

1. Rest and Modified Activity

Rest and avoid activities that exacerbate pain to give your body time to heal. Complete bed rest is not recommended. Gentle movement and light activities can help maintain flexibility and prevent muscle stiffness.

2. Physical Therapy

One of the best things to consider when figuring out how to heal a herniated disc quickly is physical therapy. A tailored physical therapy program can strengthen your core muscles, improve flexibility, and teach proper body mechanics. Studies have shown that physical therapy can be highly effective in treating herniated discs, with many patients experiencing significant improvement within four to six weeks.

3. Pain Management Techniques

Various pain relief strategies can help manage discomfort and promote healing:

- Over-the-counter pain medications (NSAIDs)

- Ice and heat therapy

- Gentle stretching exercises

- Massage therapy

4. Non-Surgical Approaches To Accelerate Disc Recovery

While surgery may be necessary in some cases, many patients find relief through non-surgical disc repair methods. These approaches focus on reducing inflammation, alleviating pain, and promoting natural healing:

5. Epidural Steroid Injections

These injections deliver anti-inflammatory medication directly to the affected area, providing rapid pain relief. A study published by the Nordic Orthopedic Federation found that 70-90% of patients experienced significant pain reduction after epidural steroid injections.

6. Chiropractic Care

Chiropractic adjustments can help realign the spine, reduce pressure on affected nerves, and improve overall spinal function. Many patients report improved mobility and reduced pain after chiropractic treatment.

7. Acupuncture

This ancient technique has shown promise in managing herniated disc pain. A systematic review published in Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine found that acupuncture could effectively relieve pain and improve function in patients with lumbar disc herniation.

How Do You Sleep with a Herniated Disc?

Some resting body positions are better than others when you’re contending with a herniated disc. Try these suggestions to find the posture that provides you with the most relaxation. 

1. Side Sleeping With a Pillow Between Your Knees

You can adjust your pillow and your knees in a couple of ways to bring relief. Gently move to your right or left side, and place a pillow between your legs. You can also roll on your back and put a soft cushion underneath your knees. Either choice works to help keep the curve of your spine in a natural position. 

2. Stomach Sleepers

While stomach sleeping is generally less than optimal for back pain sufferers, there are ways to make it work if you find that lying on your stomach is more comfortable for you. Place a pillow beneath you and move it until it supports your abdomen. Depending on how you feel, you may not need to add a cushion for your head. 

3. Fetal Position

The fetal position opens up the vertebrae on your back and allows you to fall asleep more easily. Do this by lying on either side, curling your body, and tucking your knees closer to your chest. 

4. Reclining Your Back

Try resting on your bed as you would in a reclining chair. Maintaining this posture creates an angle between your trunk and your legs.

How to Sit Comfortably with Herniated Disc

A herniated disc can wreak havoc on everyday life with improper management. Typically, you can alleviate and cope with the discomfort via self-care and changing your habits and lifestyle. Nonetheless, you may require assistance from pain management services to diagnose and treat chronic aches. Here are some of the elements you can consider to ensure you can comfortably sit with a herniated disc.

1. Limit Sitting Time: Sitting for extended periods can worsen herniated disc pain by increasing spinal disc pressure. Regular breaks to stand, walk, or lie down help decompress the spine and alleviate discomfort. Set reminders to take breaks and use opportunities like phone calls to move around.

2. Optimize Furniture and Accessories: Invest in ergonomic furniture, particularly a chair that allows your feet to rest flat on the floor, or use a footrest if needed. Adding a small pillow or rolled-up towel behind the lower back can provide extra lumbar support.

3. Practice Proper Sitting Posture: Sit with your back fully supported by the chair, keeping your hips level with or slightly above your knees to reduce spinal pressure. Avoid slouching, as poor posture can exacerbate pain from a herniated disc.

4. Consider Pain Management Services: For persistent pain, professional pain management facilities offer specialized treatment and rehabilitation plans for chronic pain, providing expert care to relieve herniated disc discomfort.

What Should You Not Do with a Herniated Disc

If you suspect you have a herniated disk or your doctor has confirmed this diagnosis, there are a few things you should avoid. 

1. Avoid lifting heavy objects or bending at the waist at any time.

2. Avoid wearing high-heeled shoes. They put pressure on your lower back and send your spine out of alignment. 

3. Focus on workouts that strengthen your abdomen and core muscles. Avoid lifting heavy weights or strenuous cardio.

4. Avoid smoking as it weakens your disks.

5. Practice good posture while sitting, standing, and walking. Avoid slouching and bending forward for extended periods.

6. Try not to sit in uncomfortable, non-ergonomic chairs or seats for a long time.

Safe Exercises to Do with a Herniated Disc

Gentle exercise is essential for alleviating pain, enhancing daily function, and improving muscle performance, especially for those recovering from herniated disk pain. Alongside walking and swimming, which help build activity levels, several safe exercises can assist in herniated disc recovery:

1. Spinal Decompression: This exercise relieves pressure on the spine by creating space between vertebrae. Hang from a stable bar for 30 seconds, repeating three times to ease discomfort.

2. Cobra Pose: A yoga pose that helps reposition disk material and reduces pain, particularly in the lower body. Begin with a half stretch by propping up on elbows, holding for 15 seconds, and repeating ten times. Progress to a full stretch by extending arms.

3. Cat-Cow: This stretch alternates between arching and rounding the back, creating space between disks and promoting spinal mobility. Perform ten repetitions for three rounds.

4. Standing Extension: Helps reduce back strain by encouraging a neutral spinal position. Stand with hands on the lower back, push the pelvis forward, and look up toward the ceiling. Repeat ten times for three rounds.

5. Bird-Dog: Strengthens deep spinal muscles to improve stability and posture. Begin on hands and knees, extend one arm and the opposite leg in alignment with the torso, and alternate sides. Repeat ten times per side for three rounds, focusing on slow, controlled movements.

In severe cases where herniated disks affect bowel or bladder control, immediate medical attention is necessary.

How to Find a Herniated Specialist Near Me

When you’re searching for a doctor to treat a herniated disc, look for someone who has in-depth knowledge about the condition. Find a doctor who has significant experience treating people like you with the same problem. 

Take the time to research doctors and other providers, including physical therapists. Specifically, look for providers who:

1. Are board-certified in their specialty and specialize in spinal care

2. Have experience treating herniated discs with minimally invasive treatments and surgery

3. You are comfortable talking with and who answers your questions and concerns

Sources:

PGH Joint and Muscle

AANS

Cleveland Clinic

WebMD

Neuro and Spine Consultants

Armor PT

Cure Pain

Yale Medicine

Ortho Bethesda

STL Pain

New York Spine Specialist

Todd J Albert MD

Texas Spine Center

Spine MD

NJ Spine and Ortho

Chernoff MD

Hamidmir MD

Healthgrades