A herniated disc can cause anything from a dull ache in the lower back to sharp pain that shoots down one leg. It is one of the most common reasons people search for back pain help, and it is also one of the conditions where surgery is often not needed. The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons’ OrthoInfo guide provides information about herniated discs, their symptoms, and treatment options. If you are looking for herniated disc treatment in Hazlet, NJ, here is what you should know about symptoms, recovery and the non-surgical options available at Airport Plaza Spine & Wellness.
What Is a Herniated Disc?
Between each vertebra in your spine is a disc that works like a cushion. Each disc has a tough outer ring and a soft, gel-like center. When the outer ring weakens or tears, part of the center can push out and press on nearby nerves. That pressure and the inflammation around it cause pain. A herniation can happen slowly from wear and tear, or suddenly from lifting, twisting or a fall. Read more about what causes disc herniation.
Common Symptoms
- Lower back pain, which is often the first symptom
- Sciatica: sharp, shooting pain from the buttock down the back of one leg
- Numbness or tingling in the leg or foot
- Weakness in the leg or foot
- Pain that gets worse when sitting, bending, coughing or sneezing
When a Herniated Disc Is an Emergency
Go to the emergency room right away if back pain comes with loss of bladder or bowel control, or numbness in the groin and inner thighs. The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS) explains that these can be signs of cauda equina syndrome, a medical emergency that requires immediate attention. Sudden or worsening leg weakness also needs prompt medical care.
Most People Improve Without Surgery
According to the AAOS, only a small percentage of patients with a herniated disc in the lower back need surgery, and most patients are free of symptoms within three to four months, although some have flare-ups along the way. The goal of non-surgical care is to calm the pain, protect the nerve and help you return to normal activity safely.
Non-Surgical Treatment Options at Airport Plaza
Your treatment plan depends on your exam, your imaging and how the pain affects your life. Options at our Hazlet clinic may include:
Physical therapy
Guided exercise strengthens the core and back muscles that support the spine and helps you move without aggravating the disc. Learn more about physical therapy in Hazlet, NJ.
Chiropractic care
Our chiropractors use Chiropractic BioPhysics and other techniques focused on spinal alignment and posture. Read about chiropractic care in Hazlet.
Non-surgical spinal decompression
Spinal decompression with VAX-D uses controlled traction to gently stretch the spine. It is designed to reduce pressure on the discs and nerves. See the benefits of spinal decompression.
Epidural steroid injections
The AAOS lists epidural steroid injections as an option to reduce inflammation around the irritated nerve. They can relieve pain enough for you to make progress in therapy. Learn more about epidural steroid injections.
Diagnostic testing in one place
Our clinic offers in-house digital X-ray, musculoskeletal ultrasound and nerve testing (NCV/EMG), which help pinpoint where the problem is coming from.
What You Can Do at Home
- Rest for a day or two if pain is severe, then return to gentle activity. The AAOS recommends brief rest followed by gradual, controlled activity.
- Walk in short sessions during the day.
- Avoid heavy lifting, bending and twisting while symptoms are strong.
- Use heat or ice for comfort.
- Take breaks from sitting and support your lower back in the car and at your desk.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a herniated disc heal without surgery?
Yes, in many cases. The AAOS reports that only a small percentage of patients need surgery and that most are free of symptoms within three to four months.
Is a bulging disc the same as a herniated disc?
Not exactly. A bulging disc extends outward evenly, while a herniated disc has a tear that lets the inner material push out. Both can press on nerves and cause pain.
Is spinal decompression good for a herniated disc?
Spinal decompression is designed to relieve pressure on the discs and nerves and is one option used for disc-related pain. Your provider will tell you whether it fits your condition.
When should I see a specialist for sciatica?
If leg pain lasts more than a few weeks, keeps getting worse, or comes with numbness or weakness, schedule an evaluation. Loss of bladder or bowel control needs emergency care.
Herniated Disc Care in Hazlet, NJ
Airport Plaza Spine & Wellness brings together chiropractors, physical therapists, pain management and diagnostic testing under one roof. Our team, led by Dr. Jason M. Brooks, D.C., will find the source of your pain and explain your options. Learn more about pain management in Hazlet, NJ.
Call (732) 264-2233 or visit us at 1354 Route 36, Hazlet, NJ 07730.
