Herniated Disc

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A herniated disc is among the most common causes of back pain, but it is  also a treatable condition. Through the expert team of physiatrists at  Spine & Sports Medical Group in Campbell, California and San Jose,  California, patients can find relief from the discomfort of a herniated  disc. Don’t live with ongoing back pain and loss of function when there  are safe and effective treatments available. Call or schedule your  appointment online today to explore your treatment options in more  detail.  

Your spine is  comprised of a series of individual bones called vertebrae. In between  each of these bones is a round, flat disc that cushions each joint and  helps hold your vertebrae in position.

These vertebral discs have a  soft, gel-like center surrounded by firm, rubbery tissue. That strong  outer shell prevents the softer interior from leaking, yet remains  flexible enough to cushion each joint. 

A herniated disc occurs  when a disc ruptures and the gel-like substance begins to leak out.  Nearby nerves become irritated, leading to significant back pain. Other  names for a herniated disc include a ruptured disc or slipped disc. 

Any  of your discs can rupture, but herniated discs are most common in the  lower portion of your spine. The area of your body where you’ll notice  symptoms depends on which disc has ruptured. 

Some things to look out for include:

• Back pain
  
• Pain in your arm or leg
  
• Sensations of numbness or tingling in your back, arm, or leg
  
• Feelings of muscle weakness in your arm or leg

Your  pain can be mild, moderate, or severe. It might be constant or  intermittent, and it might worsen if you cough, sneeze, or place sudden  pressure on your spine. If you notice these symptoms, schedule a  diagnostic exam right away to find answers. 

Medications  can help control pain and may play a role in your treatment plan. There  are a range of options to choose from, including narcotics, muscle  relaxers, anticonvulsants, and injected corticosteroids. 

Physical  therapy can also improve pain from a herniated disc. However, in some  cases, surgery is the best possible treatment path. Your surgeon can  remove all or a portion of the damaged disc. An artificial disc can be  implanted, or the two bones can be surgically fused together to  eliminate further pain. 

If you have unexplained back, arm, or leg  pain, schedule a diagnostic exam at Spine & Sports Medical Group to  find answers. You can book a visit online from the comfort of home, or  call during business hours to speak with a member of the administrative  staff.

We also see patients in the following surrounding cities:  Santa Clara, San Jose, Los Gatos, Saratoga, Cupertino, Mountain View,  Palo Alto, Los Altos, Milpitas, Fremont, Morgan Hill, and Gilroy. Book  your appointment today.