HERNIATED DISC PAIN

A herniated disc, also known as a slipped or ruptured disc, occurs when the soft inner core of a spinal disc pushes through a crack in the tougher outer layer. This can result in irritation or compression of nearby nerves, leading to pain, numbness, or weakness in the affected area. At the Comprehensive Pain Institute, serving Bedford, Benbrook, and Flower Mound, TX, we specialize in diagnosing and treating herniated disc pain to help our patients find relief and regain their quality of life.

Symptoms of a Herniated Disc

Herniated disc symptoms can vary depending on the location and severity of the disc herniation. Common symptoms include:

• Back Pain: Pain that ranges from mild to severe in the lower back or neck, depending on the disc’s location.
• Radiating Pain: Sharp pain that extends down the arms or legs, often referred to as sciatica when it affects the lower back.
• Numbness or Tingling: Sensations of tingling or numbness in the areas served by the affected nerves, such as the buttocks, legs, or feet.
• Muscle Weakness: Weakness in the muscles connected to the compressed nerves, which can affect mobility and coordination.
• Worsened Pain with Movement: Pain that intensifies with certain movements, like bending, lifting, or sitting for extended periods.

Causes of a Herniated Disc

Several factors can contribute to the development of a herniated disc, including:

• Aging: As we age, discs naturally lose some of their water content, becoming less flexible and more prone to tears or ruptures.
• Injury: Trauma or injury to the spine, such as lifting heavy objects improperly or sudden impact, can cause a disc to herniate.
• Repetitive Strain: Repeated movements that put stress on the spine can gradually weaken the discs and lead to herniation.
• Genetics: Some people may be genetically predisposed to developing herniated discs.

Treatment Options for Herniated Disc Pain

Our approach to treating herniated disc pain is personalized and designed to offer relief while improving function. Treatment options include:

• Medications: Over-the-counter pain relievers, anti-inflammatory medications, and muscle relaxants can help manage pain and reduce inflammation.
• Physical Therapy: A tailored physical therapy program can strengthen the muscles around the spine, improve flexibility, and reduce pressure on the affected nerves.
• Epidural Steroid Injections: These injections deliver anti-inflammatory medication directly into the area surrounding the herniated disc, helping to reduce inflammation and relieve pain.
• Nerve Blocks: These injections target the specific nerves affected by the herniation, providing temporary or long-term pain relief.
• Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA): RFA uses heat to disrupt the nerve signals responsible for transmitting pain, offering relief for patients with chronic pain due to a herniated disc.
• Minimally Invasive Procedures: In cases where conservative treatments do not provide adequate relief, minimally invasive procedures, such as microdiscectomy, may be recommended to remove the portion of the herniated disc that is pressing on the nerve.

Why Choose the Comprehensive Pain Institute?

At the Comprehensive Pain Institute, we understand how debilitating herniated disc pain can be. Our team of board-certified pain management specialists in Bedford, Benbrook, and Flower Mound, TX, is dedicated to providing comprehensive care tailored to your needs. With advanced diagnostic tools and a wide range of treatment options, we are here to help you get back to living a pain-free life.