Herniated Disc

Simply put, a herniated disc is an injured intervertebral disc. Our research indicates that a herniated disc occurs when the soft inner core of a spinal disc, known as the nucleus pulposus, pushes through a tear in the tough outer layer, called the annulus fibrosus. 

A herniated disc often results from trauma to the annulus fibrosus ring, which can lead to degenerative disc disease. 

This process begins with an annular tear and progresses through herniation, disc bulging (referred to as bulging disc), disc protrusion and extrusions and, eventually, spondylosis with changes to the disc and vertebral endplates (where spinal discs and vertebrae meet) that appear as arthritis.

The symptoms of a herniated disc vary depending on its location and severity. In the next sections, we’ll explore how it affects the back and neck differently.

Back

A herniated disc primarily causes back pain, which can worsen with movement. Symptoms also include numbness, muscle weakness in the legs, and sciatica—a sharp, radiating pain along the sciatic nerve. 

Neck

A herniated disc in the cervical spine causes neck pain. Some people also experience numbness, pain and muscle weakness in the upper extremities, while others may suffer headaches.

It is important to note that neck pain itself does not result from a pinched nerve. Rather, nerve compression in the cervical spine leads to arm pain, weakness, or numbness, a condition known as cervical radiculopathy.

A herniated intervertebral disc occurs when the outer structure of the spinal disc weakens, allowing the inner gel-like material to push through. 

This condition commonly results from physical strain or sudden injury. Trauma, poor posture, excessive spinal load from improper lifting, and high-impact activities can contribute to disc damage. 

The primary source of pain is inflammation caused by nucleus pulposus fragments within the posterior annular tear.

Aging is an important risk factor, as spinal discs lose water content and flexibility over time, making them more prone to tears. 

Repetitive physical strain from bending, lifting, or twisting can increase the likelihood of disc herniation. 

Obesity adds extra pressure on the spine, accelerating disc degeneration, while a sedentary lifestyle weakens the muscles that support the spine. Genetic predisposition and poor posture further contribute to increased risk.

If left untreated, a herniated disc can lead to chronic pain. Furthermore, the secondary effect of long-term nerve compression may result in loss of sensation or mobility in the arms or legs. 

Severe cases may cause cauda equina syndrome, a condition that leads to loss of bowel or bladder control and requires emergency intervention.

The most effective way to diagnose a herniated disc is through an MRI scan paired with an expert exam. Together, these tools can be used to uncover the origin of back and neck pain. 

Deuk Spine Institute offers a free MRI review, providing patients with an expert analysis to determine their pain generators, boasting 99% diagnostic accuracy without unnecessary appointments or expenses. 

Some doctors still use discography, an invasive test that injects dye into the disc, but it can cause discomfort and is often unnecessary. 

Unlike MRIs, X-rays and CT scans cannot accurately diagnose herniated discs, as they primarily show bone structures.

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen and naproxen, can temporarily reduce inflammation but do not address the underlying cause of pain. Long-term use may carry risks such as gastrointestinal toxicities and cardiovascular issues. 

Muscle relaxants may relieve spasms but often cause drowsiness and dependency. Steroid injections sometimes provide short-term relief, but frequent use may weaken spinal structures. 

Ultimately, these medications fail to prevent further disc damage and can do more harm than good in the long run.

Surgical intervention is considered when conservative, non-surgical treatments fail. Let’s consider one that is recommended globally: a microdiscectomy is a highly invasive surgical procedure where part of the herniated disc is removed. 

Despite its widespread endorsement, a microdiscectomy does not treat back pain.

Approaches like these come with high risks, motion impairment, and prolonged recovery times, failing to cure the root cause. Luckily, there is a safer, more effective solution.

Deuk Laser Disc Repair is a revolutionary, minimally invasive procedure designed to treat herniated discs without spinal fusion, large incisions, or artificial disc implants. This technique involves removing only the painful inflammatory tissue, permanently alleviating the resultant pain.

With a 0% complication rate and a 95% success rate, it is one of the safest and most effective treatments available. Patients experience minimal recovery time, no postoperative pain, and a faster return to normal activities compared to traditional surgeries.

Based on our observations, a herniated disc produces a sharp pain in the affected region. For instance, a herniated disc in the lower back will cause lower back pain.

You should see a doctor if you experience persistent back or neck pain that does not improve with rest. Our team of expert physicians is here to help you.