herniated disc

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Individual bones called vertebrae are stacked up to create your spine, and there are discs between each of these bones. These discs are actually like rubbery cushions between each of the stacked bones to help provide support and mobility of the spine. Within each of the discs is a jelly-like center called the nucleus. A herniated or slipped disc occurs when a portion of the nucleus pushes out from the disc. While the disc does not really slip out of place, pressure on the disc can force out a fragment of the nucleus. As a result, the outer layer of the injured disc ruptures. LA Pain and Performance has helped countless men and women who have suffered from a slipped disc. Reach out to one of our offices to schedule a private consultation to discover solutions on how to manage and ease your pain. We look forward to hearing from you. 

A herniated disc, which can occur in any part of the spine, can irritate a nearby nerve. Depending on where the herniated disc is, it can result in great discomfort. Symptoms to look out for include:

• Numbness or tingling in the affected area
• Muscle weakness
• Lower back pain (sciatica)
• Discomfort in the neck
• Pain in the arms or legs

Often, herniated discs are a part of the natural aging process. Over time, the discs lose water content, which makes them thinner and less durable. This is known as disc degeneration. As a result, they don't absorb shock as well and are more likely to get strained. It may not always be possible to determine the exact cause of a herniated disc. For some, it can be caused by heavy lifting or a traumatic injury. Other factors, such as obesity, genetics, and having a physically demanding job, can increase your chances of experiencing a herniated disc.

LA Pain and Performance offers a variety of noninvasive treatments to help ease chronic pain. Generally, for a herniated disc, we will begin conservatively and advise low-impact activities or exercises to alleviate pressure and inflammation in the lower back and other affected areas. From there, we can prescribe anti-inflammatory medication to help you decrease pain even further. Your treatment plan may also include the use of steroid injections and physical therapy. In severe cases, surgery may be needed. 

How do I know if I have a herniated disc?

In addition to the symptoms mentioned above, with a herniated disc, you may also experience pain while sitting, sciatica (radiating pain into your legs), and pain aggravated by certain movements and activities, like bending, lifting, and coughing.

How long does a herniated disc take to heal?

The recovery time for a herniated disc will vary for each individual. Depending on the severity and level of pain, recovery can be as quick as a week or as long as two months.

How long should I rest a herniated disc?

Usually, serious back pain can be soothed by one or two days of bed rest; however, it isn’t recommended that you rest for more than 48 hours. When you’re back on your feet, you should still take frequent breaks and avoid sitting for long periods of time. If you can, gentle stretching and movement may be helpful.

How should I lie down if I have a herniated disc?

Some specialists recommend lying in the fetal position (on your side with your legs tucked up toward your chest). Remember to switch sides to avoid imbalances.

If you or your loved one has been diagnosed with a herniated disc, contact LA Pain and Performance to get the high-quality medical care you need to bring relief. Chronic pain is a serious condition that should be assessed by a seasoned medical professional, and at our practice, we offer affordable pain treatments that can be customized to suit your specific level of discomfort and personal preferences. We are honored to be serving the men and women of the Inland Empire and High Desert and look forward to helping you.