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A healthy spine is a critical puzzle piece in your overall health and wellbeing. Between each of your vertebrae is a disc, creating a soft, malleable cushion between the bones. These spongy discs have a tough exterior or shell with a cushiony interior, serving as shock-absorbers for your spine, and help to keep your spine properly aligned as you move through the multitude of spinal motions performed in day-to-day life. Disc herniation occurs when the soft, cushiony interior of the disc pushes out through its tough exterior. You might also have heard this referred to as a “slipped disc” or a “ruptured disc.”

SYMPTOMS OF DISC HERNIATION

The majority of herniated discs will take place in the lower back (the lumbar spine), although herniation in the neck (the cervical spine) is also possible. Disc herniation is a leading cause of sciatica and lower back pain and can be quite painful.

Most commonly, a herniated disc will result in symptoms such as:

Lower back pain

Initially, this pain may last just a few days and then improve. As the condition worsens, the pain will remain for a longer duration of time.

Pain in your arms or legs

This pain could be radiating or shooting pain and often worsens with certain levels of activity.

Sensation

Numbness, tingling, or a feeling of “pins and needles” in the leg, foot, arm, or hand (depending on the location of the herniation).

Weakness in the affected leg or arm

This weakness may include disruptions in your ability to lift, push, or pull objects, or in your ability to walk normally. In severe cases, muscle atrophy may occur.

Loss of control of the bowel or bladder

While rare, loss of control of the bowel or bladder may indicate the advanced stages of disc herniation and is considered an emergency that may require surgery.

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CAUSES OF DISC HERNIATION

Wear and tear on the discs of your spine is part of the natural aging process. As we age our discs become less pliable, retain less moisture, causing the distance between each of the vertebrae to narrow.

Other factors which contribute to the herniation of discs include:

Weight

The stress on your spine of supporting an unhealthy body weight could contribute to the degeneration of the discs in your spine. Maintaining a healthy body weight is important not just for the health of your spine, but that of your entire body.

Sedentary lifestyle

Sitting for long periods of time, whether at work or at home, can be harmful to your spine. Maintaining an active lifestyle that includes exercise to strengthen your bones and muscles is imperative for spine health.

Gender

Men are more likely than women to suffer the effect of a herniated disc, specifically men between the ages of 30 and 50.

Improper lifting

Lifting any object using one’s back muscles rather than the supportive muscles of the legs creates a risk of disc herniation. This is especially important with heavy objects.

Occupation

Individuals who have more physically demanding jobs may have an increased risk of disc herniation.

Genetics

Having a family history that includes degenerative disc diseases increases the chances that you will develop one or more herniated discs over the course of your lifetime.

SURGERY FOR DISC HERNIATION

Not all incidents of disc herniation require surgical intervention. Quite frequently, patients find relief in more conservative options that can include a combination of over-the-counter non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications (known as NSAIDs), rest, and physical therapy.

If these treatments are ineffective, your spine surgeon may prescribe narcotics or steroidal injections to help ease the pain and encourage healing. If you experience a worsening of symptoms or your symptoms are not alleviated by these more conservative options, your Long Island spine surgeon may recommend surgery for your herniated disc.

The pain you experience as a result of disc herniation is a product of the herniated disc coming into contact with the spinal nerve. Removing a portion of the disc that is coming into contact with the spinal nerve to alleviate your pain is one surgical option. Removing the pressure from the nerve will remove the source of the pain and allow your body to begin to heal.

ADVANCED TREATMENTS FOR DISC HERNIATION: LONG ISLAND SPINE SPECIALISTS

If your disc degeneration is significant enough, removing the herniated disc and replacing it with a new artificial disc could be the best option. This new disc will restore the healthy alignment of your spine and allow you to continue your daily activities free of pain.

Alternatively, your spine surgeon may recommend the fusion of two or more vertebrae together. Vertebral fusion is accomplished through the use of bone grafts and titanium screws and rods, stabilizing the spine, removing nerve compression, and ultimately restoring your range of motion.

WHAT TO EXPECT DURING RECOVERY

After surgery, you will be able to return home with a friend or family member the next day. Your back will feel stiff and sore. 

The recovery period is generally about four weeks, although it may be shorter for people who follow a rehabilitation program. During recovery, do not lift anything over five pounds, twist, or bend over. Avoid sitting for periods over 45 minutes to an hour, as this can put a strain on the back.

Keep the small surgical tapes around the suture in place, and keep the area clean and dry. You may shower, but be sure to cover the incision area with a bandage and tape and avoid water hitting the wound. Do not take a bath until the wound is fully healed, about two weeks after your surgery.

You may begin driving again when you feel ready and are not taking narcotics. Start gradually and have another person with you at first while you drive, in case the pain flares up and you need help getting back home. 

You may continue light work within 1-2 weeks after surgery. Wait until 4-6 weeks have passed before returning to sports or strenuous work.

CONNECT WITH LONG ISLAND SPINE SPECIALISTS FOR A DIAGNOSIS OF BACK PAIN

Determining whether the source of your chronic back pain is disc herniation requires a thorough exam and diagnosis by your Long Island spine surgeon. After carefully reviewing your symptoms thoroughly, discussing the history of your spine health, and conducting a thorough physical exam your spine specialist will discuss your best path to a healthy recovery.

Practice Policy Update Regarding COVID-19

Dear Patients:

Our patients, employees and family are our top priority at Long Island Spine Specialists, P.C.

We ask you to not visit any of our locations if you have symptoms such as fever, sneezing, coughing and possible shortness of breath.

Please cancel your appointment and re-schedule once you are feeling better and are no longer suffering with symptoms.

Only non-symptomatic patients will be seen. No exceptions.

Accompanying family members – including children – are asked to remain in the waiting area and will not be allowed to enter the exam rooms.

During this time of high concern regarding the spread of COVID-19 (Coronavirus) we are taking extra precautions to maintain the highest possible standards of safety and cleanliness. Please be advised that we are carefully following recommendations from both the CDC and WHO and are here to help guide you through this time if needed.

Some steps we are taking to keeping safe:

  1. We know how important cleanliness is and always maintain the highest standards of cleanliness. To further offer you peace of mind, we have increased the frequency of the cleaning of our office.
  2. Rest assured that hand washing is strictly followed. Hand sanitizer is available to all staff and patients.
  3. Additionally, if you have recently traveled to a country with high rates of the coronavirus or have been on a cruise, please reschedule your visit for at least 14 days from your return date. We will gladly accommodate your needs to reschedule. At that time, a telehealth interface can be arranged if necessary.

Find up-to-date and accurate information on the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website and feel free to reach out with questions.

- Your team at Long Island Spine Specialists, P.C.

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Thank you very much for contacting Long Island Spine Specialists, P.C.

To best serve your individual needs, please choose from the following options:

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To learn more about Long Island Spine Specialists – and to discover how we can relieve your pain and help you find an improved quality of life – please contact our office today and schedule a consultation.

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