What is a Herniated Disc?

A herniated disc happens when the inner disc material, called the nucleus, seeps through the tough outer wall of the disc. A herniated disc can also be referred to as a slipped disc. There are two main types of herniated discs.

1. Contained herniated disc: A herniated disc is considered contained if the inner material of the disc has not pushed through its outer wall. It is also sometimes referred to as a contained disc herniation.

2. Extruded Discs: An extruded disc is a herniated disc if the inner material has broken through its outer wall but is still attached to the disc. It is also sometimes referred to as an extruded disc herniation.

Conservative treatments begin with rest. However, light activity should be maintained to preserve muscle tone. Physical therapy combined with heat and medicines to control pain and swelling would comprise the second level of treatment. Depending on the severity of the clinical conditions, some patients may need spinal epidural steroid injections for pain relief. If clinical symptoms in a patient persist for more than eight weeks despite extensive conservative treatments, the patient will need a surgical operation.

Note from the Doctor:

"Our team is very helpful and informative when explaining the condition and symptoms associated with a herniated disc/discs. Your time and treatment with our physicians will be personal and beneficial in your recovery process."