The intervertebral disc serves as the cushion between the individual vertebrae. The disc plays an important role in absorbing biomechanical forces the spine is constantly exposed to, whether from normal day-to-day activity, lifting heavy objects, or major trauma like a car accident. Over time, the disc may degenerate, losing its ability to function properly. The herniated disc is a type of disc degeneration where the disc leaks out of the disc space, putting pressure on the nerves. The disc herniation can occur in the spinal canal, the neural foramen (opening in the spine where the nerve exits), or outside the spinal canal.
Herniated Disc in Arlington, VA
Symptoms of a Herniated Disc
The symptoms of a herniated disc in Arlington, VA, depend on what part of the spine is affected and can include:
Cervical Region:
- Persistent neck discomfort or pain.
- Pain radiating into the shoulders, arms, or hands.
- Reduced range of motion and stiffness.
- Headaches originating from the neck.
- Numbness or tingling in the arms or legs.
- Muscle weakness in the arms or legs.
- Coordination and balance issues.
- Altered reflexes.
- Loss of bowel/bladder control.
Thoracic Region:
- Persistent pain in the upper and middle back.
- Reduced flexibility and thoracic spine stiffness.
- Pain extending to the chest or abdomen.
- Weakness in the muscles of the upper back and legs.
- Numbness or tingling in the torso and legs.
- Difficulty with twisting or bending movements.
- Balan difficulties.
- Altered reflexes.
- Loss of bowel/bladder control.
Lumbar Region:
- Persistent lower back pain.
- Pain traveling into the buttocks or legs.
- Reduced flexibility and lower back stiffness.
- Weakness in the muscles of the lower back and legs.
- Numbness or tingling in the legs or feet.
- Challenges with prolonged standing or walking.
- Loss of bowel/bladder control.
There are rare conditions where disc herniation can result in rapid paralysis, numbness in your legs or genitalia, and problems with bowel or bladder function. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, call 9-1-1 or go to the nearest emergency room for urgent evaluation.
Why Choose Virginia Neurosurgeons for Herniated Disc Care?
At Virginia Neurosurgeons, our board-certified neurosurgeons have extensive training in the diagnosis and surgical management of spinal conditions. What sets Virginia Neurosurgeons apart from other spinal surgeons is our comprehensive training as neurosurgeons. We approach each case by integrating the patient’s symptoms, imaging findings and diagnostics, and detailed neurologic assessment to diagnose the patient and formulate a personalized treatment plan. We pride ourselves on ethical and honest practices, serving as trusted advocates and partners for our patients’ medical care. Our commitment to open communication ensures that patients fully understand their conditions and treatment options, even if they are not surgical candidates. Our surgical interventions aim to provide clinically meaningful benefits, including pain reduction and preservation and restoration of neurological function, improving the quality of life for our patients.
Treatments for Disc Herniation
Once our surgeons have made a diagnosis of a disc herniation, they will review with you non-surgical and surgical treatment options to create a management plan specific to your case. Treatments for disc herniations include:
Non-Invasive Interventions:
- Medications for pain management and inflammation.
- Physical therapy to improve strength and flexibility.
- Activity modification to reduce strain on the spine.
- Acupuncture or dry needling.
- Chiropractic care.
Minimally Invasive Procedures:
- Epidural steroid injections to alleviate pain in the nerves and spinal joints.
- Radiofrequency ablation (specialized heat treatment) to disrupt nerve signals causing pain.
Surgical Interventions:
- Discectomy (disc surgery) to remove disc material pressuring on nerves.
- Spinal fusion to stabilize the spine and reduce pain.
- Artificial disc replacement to maintain spinal motion.
- Laminectomy to relieve pressure on spinal nerves.
Comprehensive Rehabilitation Programs:
- Customized exercise regimens for ongoing strength and flexibility.
- Lifestyle modifications for long-term spine health.
- Patient education to promote self-management and prevent future issues.
Many patients will benefit from non-surgical therapies. Patients who do not respond to conservative therapy may be surgical candidates. Not all patients with degenerative disc disease may benefit from surgery, however. At Virginia Neurosurgeons, we will provide you with our honest recommendation on the most effective treatment for your condition, even if it is not surgical.
Recovery from a Herniated Disc
Recovery from herniated disc treatment varies:
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Conservative Treatment: Rest, medication, and physical therapy may take weeks to months for full recovery.
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Injections: Relief from epidural steroid injections can occur within days to weeks, but multiple injections may be needed.
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Surgery: After procedures like discectomy, relief can be immediate, but full recovery may take weeks to months. More extensive surgeries like laminectomy or spinal fusion may require a longer recovery.
Follow-up care, rehabilitation, and a healthy lifestyle are crucial for optimal recovery and prevention of recurrence.
Schedule Your Consultation with Virginia Neurosurgeons Today
Experience relief from disc herniation symptoms—schedule a consultation with Virginia Neurosurgeons today. Our expert team offers personalized care and effective interventions tailored to your needs. Take the first step toward improved spinal health and enhanced well-being.
