3 Telltale Signs You Have a Herniated Disc

Back pain is widespread — it affected almost 4 in 10 adults in 2019. Herniated discs are a frequent culprit, striking up to 2% of people yearly. Fortunately, help is available.

At Steel City Spine and Orthopedic Center, with locations in Western Pennsylvania and our expansion office in South Florida, Dr. Jocelyn Idema and our skilled staff use state-of-the-art treatments with proven track records to address many spine and orthopedic issues.

Whether you’re struggling with a herniated disc, spinal stenosis, or any number of other conditions, our team can help you navigate your recovery and provide support if the injury occurred at work or in an auto accident.

Herniated discs

By adulthood, the spines of most people consist of 24 bones known as vertebrae. They run down the back from the base of the skull to the tailbone.

Discs sit between each vertebra and enable the spine to move and bend. Each disc has a firm outer layer and a soft, jelly-like interior.

A herniated disc occurs when the outside of the disc weakens and cracks, allowing the inner substance to leak out and potentially press against the spinal nerves.

Symptoms

Herniated discs occur most often in the neck and lower back. A herniated disc in either location can cause symptoms such as pain, tingling or numbness, and muscle weakness.

Herniated cervical disc

A herniated disc in the neck (also known as a herniated cervical disc) often presents with pain in the back and sides of the neck, around or between the shoulder blades, or traveling to the shoulder, arm, and, in some cases, the hand and fingers. 

Discomfort often increases when bending or turning the neck. Tingling or numbness in the arms is also possible.

Herniated lumbar disc

A herniated lumbar disc occurs in the lower back and often appears as sciatic nerve pain shooting down into one leg. It can also include back pain, tingling or numbness in the legs and feet, and muscle weakness.

Diagnosis and treatment

We typically diagnose a herniated disc by performing a physical exam and often ordering tests such as an MRI, X-ray, or CT scan.

Conservative treatment may include anti-inflammatories and other medications, physical therapy, and steroid injections. Surgery isn’t usually necessary but is an option if your symptoms don’t resolve.

If you have back or neck pain, get a proper diagnosis and treatment plan to start feeling better soon. Call the Steel City Spine and Orthopedic Center office near you or request an appointment online today.