Herniated disc or slipped disc is the soft inner core of a spinal disc that protrudes through its outer layer. It can irritate the surrounding nerves, resulting in discomfort in the arms or legs, numbness, as well as weakness. Herniated discs can interfere with daily activities and generally occur due to aging-related wear and tear or an acute injury. However, physical therapy, rest, and surgery are all possible forms of treatment.
At Apex Spine and Neurosurgery offer at Roswell herniated disc treatment method. Their clinic is also situated in different parts of Georgia like Columbus, Bethlehem, Alpharetta, and Suwanee. The healthcare professionals in the clinic find the least non-invasive way to treat herniated discs.
Symptoms of Herniated Disc
- Sharp pain in the nerves following down the leg (sciatica), arm, neck, or back.
- Numbness, tingling, or muscle weakness in the neck, lower back, shoulders, arms, legs, or feet.
- Sharp pain during movement, or persistent intense pain that restricts mobility.
- Coughing and sneezing can worsen your symptoms.
- Age is a major factor in herniated discs when discs lose their cushioning.
Diagnosis Method
- The doctor starts by going over the patient’s symptoms, how long they have been present, and any pertinent medical history.
- A complete physical examination that includes reflex testing, an evaluation of muscular strength, and sensory tests assists in the identification of possible nerve involvement.
- X-rays give a general idea of how the spine is aligned, while an MRI or CT scan gives precise information on the location of the herniated disc.
- Electromyogram (EMG) test assesses the muscle’s reaction to nerve stimulation and helps identify the locations and extent of nerve injury.
- Combining Nerve conduction studies (NCS) with EMG is a common practice. While some nerves detect electrical impulses elsewhere, others receive tiny electrical impulses via an electrode and the impulse travel time reveals the presence of nerve injury.
Treatment Methods in Roswell
The choice of treatment selected by professionals in Roswell will depend upon the severity of the problem. Here are some methods that are used by doctors –
- The initial course of treatment is complete rest and avoiding strenuous work, since these actions reduce pain and promote healing.
- You can lessen the discomfort by using over-the-counter painkillers, muscle relaxants, or prescription drugs.
- Specific stretches and exercises improve flexibility, strengthen the muscles that support the ruptured disc, and relieve pain.
- Anti-inflammatory drugs are injected near the injured nerve to lessen pain and inflammation.
- Discectomy, microdiscectomy, or spinal fusion may be considered if symptoms persist and significantly lower quality of life.
- Methods like percutaneous discectomy use small incisions and specialized equipment to remove disc material.
- Recurrence can be avoided, and symptoms can be controlled by maintaining a weight, good posture, and healthy lifestyle practices.
Herniated disc problems if not treated properly can restrict mobility and disable a person. Thus, consult healthcare professionals accordingly.
