Orlando Herniated Disc Specialists

If you’re living with the pain and discomfort of a herniated disc (bulging disc), it’s important to have access to reliable doctors who can diagnose and treat your condition as quickly as possible. Fortunately, Orlando offers an abundance of options for exceptional care from experienced medical professionals. Here at Advanced Neurospine Associates, we provide our patients with top-tier herniated disc treatments that are tailored to each individual’s needs. Our team is committed to delivering safe, effective results for those looking for relief from painful symptoms.

What Is a Herniated Disc and What Are the Symptoms?

A herniated disc (ruptured disc) occurs when the soft material between two spinal vertebrae bulges out of its natural position. This uncomfortable condition is most typically caused by everyday wear and tear from physical activity, age, or injury. Early symptoms of a herniated disc include localized back pain followed by tingling and numbness radiating from the lower back to either one or both legs. In more severe cases, muscle spasms may also affect the surrounding muscles. If you start to experience any of these symptoms it is highly recommended that you visit your doctor or spine specialist for an accurate diagnosis as soon as possible so that treatment can begin.

What Should You Do if You Think You May Have a Herniated Disc?

If you are concerned that you may have a herniated disc, it is important to seek medical advice as soon as possible. Visit your primary care physician or schedule an appointment with an orthopedic surgeon to discuss potential treatments and treatment plans. During the visit, provide your doctor with detailed information about how the pain started and when it occurs/intensifies so they can better determine what may be causing it and suggest proper measures such as using over-the-counter medications, rest, physical therapy, and potentially surgery if the symptoms do not improve or respond to treatment. If necessary, they may also order tests such as X-rays to identify any issues. Taking preventive action now can help prevent more serious complications down the road.

How Is a Bulging Disc Treated and What Are the Risks Associated With Treatment?

Bulging discs are typically treated through medications, physical therapy, massage therapy, interventional procedures, and spine surgery. Medications such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications can help to reduce pain. Physical therapy exercises can give the patient relief from pain, improve mobility, and bolster muscles around the spine for improved spinal stability. Interventional procedures may be recommended to inject medications into the surrounding area of the injured disc to facilitate healing and relieve pain. When medications, physical therapy, massage therapy, and interventional procedures fail to bring relief, then a surgical procedure may be considered as a last resort treatment option for disc herniation; risks of this procedure include nerve damage or other serious complications that could lead to longer recovery time than with conservative treatments. Generally though, when severe symptoms occur as a result of bulging discs, it is wise to consult with your doctor to discuss risks associated with each available treatment option so that informed decision-making can occur.

Medications

Treatment for herniated discs typically focuses on addressing the pain and restoring mobility. Medication is one form of pain relief available for this condition; both over-the-counter and prescription medications are options. Over-the-counter drugs such as ibuprofen and acetaminophen can help reduce muscle spasms, inflammation, and pain. Prescription options such as topical analgesics, muscle relaxants, and oral steroids may also be recommended if more powerful pain relief is needed. Ultimately, the type of medication prescribed depends on the severity of symptoms experienced by the individual patient. Though medications can provide some immediate symptom relief, it is important to know that they do not stop or reverse nerve damage associated with a herniated disc.

Physical Therapy

Suffering from a herniated disc can be debilitating, making even the simplest everyday activities difficult. But physical therapy is a beneficial treatment option for individuals who have experienced this condition. Regular physical therapy treatments can help promote healing and strengthen muscles surrounding the spine, all of which can reduce pain levels and improve one’s quality of life. A physical therapist will develop an effective program specifically catered to the individual’s needs and goals, along with prescribing exercises that can help stretch and strengthen the back muscles. With consistency, hard work, and determination, physical therapy can be an integral part of healing from a herniated disc.

Massage Therapy

Massage therapy is a valuable treatment option to consider when dealing with a herniated disc. Studies have demonstrated that massage techniques like Swedish and deep tissue massage can help relieve pain from herniated discs as well as improve mobility and posture. Massage therapy also offers numerous other benefits, such as improved circulation, which helps speed up healing in injured tissues. Furthermore, massage therapy can provide tremendous mental and emotional support for individuals suffering from a herniated disc by offering stress relief and increasing their sense of wellbeing. All these benefits make massage an important part of comprehensive care for people with a herniated disc.

In-Office Interventional Spine Procedures

A herniated disc can be painful and debilitating, making it difficult for many people to go about their daily lives. Fortunately, there are interventional procedures available today that can help manage or even reduce the pain associated with a herniated disc. These treatments often focus on decompressing the area around the disc through injections of corticosteroids or other medications, or oral steroids that can reduce inflammation. Some physicians also specialize in minimally invasive procedures such as endoscopic discectomy, during which a small tube is inserted into the spinal canal to remove some of the material compressed onto nerve roots. Other non-invasive treatments include physical therapy and chiropractic care that can help stretch out tight muscles, increase flexibility, and strengthen muscles. While there is no guarantee that any treatment will work for every patient, exploring these options may help alleviate discomfort caused by a herniated disc and could eventually lead to regaining a range of motion lost due to injury from the condition.

Back Surgery

Surgery for a herniated disc can be an effective corrective procedure for those experiencing persistent lower back pain. In this procedure, a surgeon will remove the herniated portion of the intervertebral disc to alleviate pressure on surrounding nerve tissue. They may also consider an artificial disc replacement. Recovery times vary depending on the complexity of the case, however many complex spine surgery procedures can often have patients back to their daily routine within a few weeks or less. Depending on the severity and prevalence of symptoms, surgery may prove to be necessary to allow the patient long-lasting relief from their condition. For those considering this option, it is important to consult with a qualified medical professional if you are considering this more invasive herniated disc treatment.

Summary

A herniated disc can cause a lot of pain and discomfort. If you think you may have a herniated disc, it’s important to see a doctor right away. Treatment options include rest, ice, physical therapy, and sometimes surgery. While there are risks associated with all treatment options, the sooner you start treatment, the better your chances are for a full recovery.