Herniated Disc
A herniated disc occurs when the soft inner material of a spinal disc pushes through its outer ring — compressing nearby nerves and causing significant pain, numbness, or weakness.
About Herniated Disc
A herniated disc — sometimes called a slipped or ruptured disc — happens when the soft, gel-like center of an intervertebral disc pushes through its tougher outer layer. The result can be pressure on a nerve root or the spinal cord.
Herniations most often occur in the lumbar spine (causing leg pain or sciatica) and the cervical spine (causing arm pain or radiculopathy). Many heal with non-surgical care; severe cases or progressive weakness may require more advanced treatment.
Common symptoms
- Sharp, burning back or neck pain — often worse with movement
- Radiating pain into the arm, leg, or foot
- Numbness or tingling in the extremities
- Muscle weakness in the affected limb
- Pain that worsens with coughing, sneezing, or prolonged sitting
What causes herniated disc
Age-related disc degeneration and dehydration
Repetitive stress and poor body mechanics with lifting
Sudden injury or trauma — auto accidents or falls
Genetic and structural factors
Smoking, obesity, and sedentary lifestyle
How we identify it
Accurate diagnosis comes first — so every treatment is aimed at the true source of pain.
- 01Physical and neurological exam
- 02MRI imaging — the gold standard for confirming disc herniation
- 03EMG or nerve conduction studies when indicated
How we treat herniated disc
Epidural steroid injections
01Image-guided medication delivery to calm the inflamed nerve root and reduce radiating pain.
Learn moreSelective nerve root block
02Targeted diagnostic and therapeutic injection at the specific nerve causing symptoms.
Learn morePhysical therapy
03Directional exercises, core stabilization, and mobility work to relieve nerve pressure.
Learn moreRegenerative medicine
04PRP and stem cell options to support disc and soft-tissue healing in select cases.
Learn moreWhen to see a specialist
Seek care if radiating arm or leg pain has persisted, if you have progressive weakness or numbness, or if conservative care has not improved your symptoms. New bowel or bladder changes are a medical emergency.
Book Free ConsultationAll common symptoms
- Sharp, burning back or neck pain — often worse with movement
- Radiating pain into the arm, leg, or foot
- Numbness or tingling in the extremities
- Muscle weakness in the affected limb
- Pain that worsens with coughing, sneezing, or prolonged sitting
Get expert care for herniated disc
Request a consultation and our specialists will identify the source of your pain and build a treatment plan around it.