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TYPES OF PAIN

Herniated Disc

OVERVIEW

Your spine contains 33 disc-shaped bones known as vertebrae, connected by soft tissues like muscles, ligaments, and tendons, and together they make up the spinal column. There is a hole that runs through each vertebra all the way through the spinal column is called the spinal canal, and this is where your spinal cord is contained. To cushion your vertebrae, soft discs lie in between them, acting as shock absorbers and allowing the bending, twisting, and flexing of your spine.

The spinal discs are filled with a gelatin material, and covered by a firm outer shell. If that outer shell breaks, and the center of the disc leaks out, this is known as a herniated disc (Sometimes referred to as a slipped disc or a ruptured disc)

Generally, a herniated disc is caused by normal, age-related deterioration of the body (wear and tear) . But, there are some risk factors other than age associated with the condition, including:

  • Erroneous movement/lifting – using your back muscles instead of your legs, distorting while lifting, etc.
  • Overweight activity
  • Genetic hereditary conditions

HERNIATED DISC

Vertebral discs are the spinal column’s shock absorbers. These discs cushion the vertebral bones and allow the spine to twist and bend. A herniated disc can press against the spinal cord or nerve root, causing pain, numbness and tingling.

WE CAN HELP!

If your herniated disc doesn’t heal on its own after rest and the passage of time, you may be a candidate for surgery, including procedures such as discectomy (removal of the disc), spinal fusion, or some other types of surgical procedure. Our spinal experts will guide you through your options regarding these minimally invasive surgeries/procedures to help get you back on your feet as soon as possible.

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