Herniated Discs

A herniated disc, also known as a slipped or bulging disc, occurs when the soft, jelly-like center of a spinal disc pushes against and leaks out of its outer ring. This can lead to pain, numbness, and weakness in your neck, back, or legs. 

Every year, more than three million people in the U.S. get a herniated disc. They are a leading cause of neck, back, and leg pain and can happen anywhere along your spine, but most often in your lower back or neck.  

Although pain is a common symptom throughout your back, symptoms of a herniated disc vary depending on its location and may lead to other symptoms. A herniated disc in your lower back may cause sciatic nerve pain that usually shoots down one side of your buttocks into your leg and sometimes your foot. Other symptoms of a herniated disc in your lower back may include: 

• Lower back pain 

• Muscle weakness 

• Tingling or numbness in your legs and/or feet 

Symptoms of a herniated disc in your neck may include: 

• Neck pain, especially in the back and on the sides of your neck 

• Pain near or between your shoulder blades 

• Pain that travels to your shoulder, arm, and sometimes your hand and fingers 

• Numbness or tingling in your arms 

• Pain that increases while bending or turning your neck 

Several factors can contribute to a herniated disc, including: 

• Traumatic injuries, such as falls 

• Aging 

• Lifting heavy objects improperly 

• Performing repetitive bending or twisting motions 

People between the ages of 30 and 50 years old are most likely to get a herniated disc, with men being twice as likely to be affected by them as women. Herniated discs tend to run in families. Other risk factors for herniated discs include: 

• Sitting in the same position for long periods of time 

• Being overweight or obese 

• Having diabetes 

• Smoking  

• Having a connective tissue disorder 

A healthcare provider can diagnose a herniated disc by performing a thorough physical exam, which allows them to assess your pain, muscle reflexes, how well you respond to touch, pinpricks, or vibration, and muscle strength. Your healthcare provider may also perform other tests, such as: 

• A neurological exam 

• Imaging tests, such as: 

• MRI scan 

• X-rays 

• CT scan 

• A nerve conduction study 

• Myelogram 

• Electromyogram (EMG) 

In most cases, pain from a herniated disc eventually goes away on its own within four to six weeks. However, if you need to relieve your pain while at home, you can: 

• Rest for one to three days if the pain is severe, but avoid long periods of bed rest to prevent stiffness 

• Take an over-the-counter (OTC) pain reliever, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen 

• Apply heat or ice to the affected area 

If your symptoms aren’t improving, your healthcare provider may recommend more advanced treatments, such as medications, physical therapy, or spinal injections. 

If nonsurgical treatments don’t ease or relieve your symptoms, your healthcare provider may recommend a minimally invasive spine surgery called a microdiscectomy.  

Although it isn’t always possible to prevent a herniated disc, you can reduce your risk of developing one by: 

• Stretching 

• Using proper lifting techniques 

• Practicing good posture 

• Maintaining a healthy weight 

• Getting regular physical activity 

• Avoiding wearing high-heeled shoes 

• Quitting smoking 

The Orthopedic Surgery Department of Jamaica Hospital in Queens, NY, consists of board-certified, expert surgeons who offer treatment for patients suffering from any orthopedic condition, ensuring speedy recovery and maximum comfort throughout the treatment process. For more information about how to make an appointment with our orthopedic surgeons, please contact us at 718-206-6923. 

All content of this newsletter is intended for general information purposes only and is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a medical professional before adopting any of the suggestions on this page. You must never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment based upon any content of this newsletter. PROMPTLY CONSULT YOUR PHYSICIAN OR CALL 911 IF YOU BELIEVE YOU HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY.