Lumbar Disc Herniation
The lower back, or lumbar spine is made up of 5 bones, or vertebrae. These bones are separated from each other by a specialized cartilage cushion called an intervertebral disc. As we age, the tough outer ring of the discs can become weaker allowing the soft jelly like center to “squirt out”, or herniate. Herniated discs can put pressure on the spinal nerves that pass close by. Herniated discs are often called slipped discs, ruptured discs, protruding discs, or bulging discs.
In the lumbar spine, a herniated disk can irritate nearby nerves and result in pain, numbness, or even weakness in the leg or foot. On the other hand, most people with herniated discs experience no symptoms whatsoever. When people do have symptoms, the vast majority of their symptoms will improve with time, and do not require surgery.
Treatment
When pain or other symptoms persist more aggressive treatment is usually sought and may include medication, epidural spinal injections, and in some cases, surgery. If surgery is required, the vast majority of herniated discs can be treated with minimally invasive surgery, allowing them to leave the hospital the same day as surgery, with only a small bandage.
The physicians and surgeons at Florida Spine Specialists are experts in treating herniated discs. We believe in a conservative approach, utilizing all the tools currently available to help resolve our patients’ symptoms. Our priority is providing the best care for our patients, and treatment plans are tailored to each individual’s specific problems and needs.
