A herniated disc—also called a herniated disk, ruptured disc, or slipped disc—is one of the most common causes of back pain and leg pain. This condition occurs when part of the soft inner portion of a spinal disc pushes through the tougher outer layer, creating a bulge that may press on nearby nerves. A herniated disc most often occurs in the lower back, though it can also affect the neck.
Symptoms of a Herniated Disc
The symptoms of a herniated disk can vary depending on its location and whether the herniated part of the disc is pressing on a nerve:
- Lower back pain or neck pain
- Sciatica pain – pain that radiates down the leg or buttock
- Tingling, numbness, or weakness in the arm or leg
- Worsening pain with movement, coughing, or sneezing
- Muscle spasms and stiffness in the spine
Some people experience only mild discomfort, while others may suffer from severe herniated disc pain that interferes with daily activities.
Causes of a Herniated Disc
A disc herniation can happen suddenly after an injury, but more often, it develops over time due to degenerative disc disease or natural wear and tear. Risk factors include:
- Age-related changes in the spinal disc
- Heavy lifting, twisting, or repetitive movements
- Poor posture or weak back muscles
- Being overweight, which adds stress to the spine
Herniated Disc Treatment Options
Fortunately, many people find relief with nonsurgical treatment. At Spine and Sports Rehab, our pain management specialists offer personalized treatment plans to relieve pain and restore function.
Conservative and Nonsurgical Treatments
- Rest and activity modification to reduce pressure on the affected disc
- Medications for herniated disc pain, including OTC pain relievers and prescription options
- Physical therapy with a physical therapist to strengthen muscles, improve mobility, and support the spine
- Injections (such as epidural steroid injections) to reduce inflammation and provide targeted pain relief
- Heat, ice, and gentle stretching exercises to improve flexibility
When Surgery Is Needed
If pain is severe, symptoms persist, or there is significant weakness or loss of function, herniated disk surgery may be considered. Surgical treatment options include:
- Removing the herniated part of the disk to relieve pressure on the nerve
- In some cases, removing the entire disc and replacing it with an artificial disk or performing a spinal fusion
Your provider may recommend surgery only if conservative treatments do not provide relief.
Pain Management for a Herniated Disc
Living with a herniated disc can be challenging, but with the right treatment plan, most people can find lasting relief. Our team focuses on:
- Identifying the cause of the pain
- Using advanced pain management techniques to relieve your symptoms
- Providing a combination of nonsurgical treatments and, when needed, referrals for surgical care
- Helping patients protect their back and spine to prevent future issues
A herniated disc may cause pain, but with early diagnosis and proper herniated disc treatment, most patients improve without surgery. Whether you’re dealing with a lumbar herniated disc, cervical herniation, or recurring back and leg pain, the right combination of conservative treatment and pain management specialists can help you relieve pain, restore movement, and get back to living your life.
At Spine and Sports Rehab, we are committed to providing advanced care and treatments for herniated disc pain so you don’t have to let back pain hold you back.
Dr. Sudberg is the CEO and Medical Director of Spine and Sports Rehabilitation and an experienced chiropractor in Islandia. Dr. Sudberg completed his residency training in Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation at North Shore Long Island Jewish Hospital in New York. His Internal Medicine Internship was completed at Staten Island University Hospital.