Coastal Orthopedic Pain & Spine Center
CONDITION
HERNIATED DISC
A herniated disc occurs when the inner gel-like core of an intervertebral disc protrudes through a tear in the outer layer, potentially compressing nearby nerves and causing pain. Common causes include age-related degeneration, trauma, repetitive stress, genetics, and poor lifestyle habits such as obesity or lack of exercise. Symptoms often include localized back pain, radiating pain to the limbs, numbness, tingling, muscle weakness, and pain that worsens with movement. Diagnosis typically involves a combination of medical history, physical exams, and imaging tests like MRI or CT scans to confirm the presence of the herniated disc and its impact on surrounding nerves.
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Treatment for a herniated disc typically starts with conservative measures such as rest, physical therapy, medications, corticosteroid injections, and lifestyle modifications. Surgery may be considered for severe cases that don’t respond to non-surgical treatments, including procedures like discectomy, laminectomy, or spinal fusion. Prevention involves proper posture, strengthening exercises, safe lifting techniques, and maintaining a healthy weight. With early diagnosis and appropriate treatment, many people can recover from a herniated disc and manage symptoms effectively.
TREATMENT
EPIDURAL INJECTIONS
Epidural steroid injections (ESI) involve injecting a small dose of corticosteroid into the epidural space in the spine, which is the area between the vertebrae and the dural sac surrounding the spinal cord. The purpose of the injection is to reduce inflammation around the nerve roots, which can help alleviate pain in the neck, back, and limbs. The effectiveness of ESIs varies from person to person, with relief typically lasting from weeks to months. If pain returns, additional injections may be considered for continued relief.
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The procedure is performed while the patient is awake and lying on their stomach. The area of injection (back or neck) is cleaned with antiseptic, and a local anesthetic is applied to numb the skin. Using fluoroscopic (X-ray) guidance, the doctor inserts a needle into the epidural space to administer the steroid. The procedure is generally quick, with pressure felt during the needle insertion. Afterward, the skin is cleansed and a bandage is applied. The bandage can be removed the next day.