What is Lumbar Herniated Disc?
A herniated disc is a condition in which the outer fibers (annulus) of the intervertebral spinal discs are damaged, causing the soft inner material of the nucleus pulposus to rupture out of its space. A herniated disc, also known as a slipped disc or ruptured disc, is common in the lower back (lumbar spine or lumbar region) and occurs when there is a tear in the outer lining of the disc (annulus fibrosus). This causes the inner jelly-like material (nucleus pulposus) to leak out and place pressure on the adjacent spinal nerve root and spinal canal. It is the most common cause of lower back pain and pain that radiates down the leg (radiculopathy).
The most common symptoms of a herniated lumbar disc include back pain that radiates to the buttocks and legs, numbness or tingling sensation in the leg or foot, muscle weakness in the leg or foot, and in rare cases, loss of bowel and bladder control due to nerve damage. Common causes include aging, obesity, and smoking.
Diagnosis of Lumbar Herniated Disc
Proper diagnosis of the herniated disc requires a complete medical history and a careful physical examination by a spine surgeon. Some of the additional diagnostic tests your herniated disc treatment Dallas doctor may suggest include:
- X-ray of the middle back: X-rays help to detect the amount of (age-related) wear and tear present in the vertebrae and bones and to rule out other conditions.
- CT scans and MRI scans: These imaging tests are done by a board-certified orthopedic spine specialist to confirm the diagnosis of a herniated disc, identify the extent of herniation and inflammation, and determine whether the spinal cord or surrounding nerves are compressed, helping to guide treatment options to find relief for the symptoms.
Treatment Options for Lumbar Herniated Disc Treatment Dallas
Conservative Treatment
Herniated discs are commonly treated without surgery. Conservative treatment includes pain medications, physical therapy (focusing on core strengthening, stretching, and stability), and avoiding strenuous activity if the pain is severe.
Epidural Steroid Injection (ESI): ESI can reduce inflammation around irritated nerves and can be considered if the pain is intolerable even with medications and rest.
Surgical Treatment
Minimally invasive spine surgeries are preferred when conservative treatment fails, and spinal decompression may be recommended in some cases.
Lumbar microdiscectomy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure performed by a spine specialist to remove a herniated part of the intervertebral disc and any fragments that are putting pressure on the spinal nerve, helping to relieve pressure and relieve pain. This surgical procedure involves the use of a surgical microscope and microsurgical techniques to gain access to the lumbar spine through a small incision. The microscope magnifies and illuminates the area of operation. Only a small portion of the herniated disc that pinches on the nerve roots is removed, which allows most patients to recover on an outpatient basis with reduced risk factors compared to traditional surgery.
Dr. Simpson specializes in both non-surgical treatment options and surgical treatment options for ruptured discs. Contact Dr. Simpson for your herniated disc consultation today!
