Herniated Disc
Description
A herniated disc occurs when a portion of the
vertebral disc ruptures. This ruptured portion
may push on nerves in the cervical, thoracic
or lumbar areas.
This pressure on the nerves can often lead to
numbness and pain. Smaller herniations are
sometimes called protrusions.
Symptoms
Cervical
- Discomfort in one or both arms
- Shooting pains in one or both arms
- Weakness or numbness in one or both arms
- Burning arm pain
Lumbar
- Discomfort in leg, ankle, or foot
- Shooting pain, weakness or numbness in leg
- Leg pain is usually worse when sitting
Causes
Cervical
Degeneration due to normal aging process- Trauma
- Episode of heavy lifting
Lumbar
- Degeneration due to normal aging process
- Trauma
- Episode of heavy lifting
- Sudden twisting
Possible Treatment Options
Non Operative Treatment
Medications and non operative treatments (physical therapy)
are sometimes needed. Occasionally epidural injections
are indicated for pain relief. Surgery can be considered for
those who do not improve.
Anterior Cervical Discectomy Fusion Instrumented
The ruptured disc is removed. It is then replaced by a bone graft.
An anterior cervical plate is implanted for stability.
Posterior Cervical Laminotomy
The spinous process and lamina are removed to decrease
pressure on the spinal cord. Instrumentation may be used to
increase post-operative stability.
Lumbar Partial Discectomy
Removal of herniated portion of the disc relieves the pressure
on the painful nerve.
For more information on Herniated Discs, visit UnderstandSpineSurgery.com.
