Frequently Asked Questions About Herniated Discs

Back pain can range from a mild inconvenience to a debilitating condition, and one of the most common causes is a herniated disc. If you’ve experienced sharp, radiating pain in your back or legs, you might wonder if a herniated disc is to blame. Understanding the condition and your options for treatment is the first step toward relief.

At SpineOne, we’ve been helping Denver residents address herniated disc pain and regain mobility for over 20 years. Our minimally invasive treatments are tailored to patients who’ve tried conservative methods like massage and chiropractic care without success. Here, we’ll answer some of the most frequently asked questions about herniated discs and explain when it might be time to seek professional help.

What Is a Herniated Disc?

A herniated disc occurs when the soft, gel-like center of a spinal disc pushes through its outer layer. This can irritate nearby nerves, causing pain, numbness, or weakness. Herniated discs most commonly occur in the lower back (lumbar spine) but can also affect the neck (cervical spine).

What Are the Symptoms of a Herniated Disc?

Symptoms vary depending on the location of the herniation and the severity of nerve compression. Common signs include:

  • Lower Back (Lumbar Spine):
    • Radiating pain down one leg (sciatica)
    • Tingling or numbness in the leg or foot
    • Muscle weakness
  • Neck (Cervical Spine):
    • Pain radiating into the shoulder or arm
    • Numbness or tingling in the arm or hand
    • Neck pain and stiffness

In Denver’s active community, symptoms might flare up after skiing, hiking, or lifting heavy objects. If the pain is severe or persistent, it’s essential to get a professional evaluation.

What Causes a Herniated Disc?

Common causes include:

  1. Aging and Wear-and-Tear: Disc degeneration is a natural part of aging and can make discs more prone to herniation.
  2. Injury or Trauma: A sudden strain or accident can cause a disc to rupture.
  3. Repetitive Motions: Jobs or hobbies that require heavy lifting or twisting motions, like shoveling Denver’s snow, can increase the risk.

How Is a Herniated Disc Diagnosed?

At SpineOne, we use a combination of methods to diagnose herniated discs, including:

  • Comprehensive Physical Exam: To assess pain triggers, muscle strength, and range of motion.
  • Advanced Imaging: Techniques like MRI or CT scans provide detailed images to confirm the herniation and its impact on nerves.

Our team in the Denver metro area ensures you receive an accurate diagnosis tailored to your symptoms and lifestyle.

What Are My Treatment Options?

Most herniated discs improve with conservative care, but when pain persists, it’s time to explore advanced treatment options:

1. Conservative Treatments

  • Rest and Physical Therapy: Exercises to strengthen core muscles and improve posture.
  • Medications: Over-the-counter pain relievers or anti-inflammatory medications can provide temporary relief.
  • Massage and Chiropractic Care: These methods may alleviate mild cases but aren’t always sufficient for severe herniations.

2. Advanced Treatments at SpineOne

If conservative methods aren’t providing relief, SpineOne offers minimally invasive options to help patients get back to their active Denver lifestyle:

  • Epidural Steroid Injections: Targeted injections reduce inflammation and relieve nerve pressure.
  • Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA): This technique interrupts pain signals from the affected nerve.
  • Minimally Invasive Surgery: For severe cases, procedures like microdiscectomy can remove the herniated portion of the disc and relieve nerve compression.

Our goal is to provide effective treatment with as little disruption to your life as possible.

When Should I Seek Help from SpineOne?

If you’ve tried massage, chiropractic care, or other home remedies but your pain isn’t improving—or is getting worse—it’s time to visit SpineOne. Signs you need professional help include:

  • Pain that persists beyond a few weeks
  • Numbness or weakness in your arms or legs
  • Difficulty performing daily activities or enjoying hobbies

At SpineOne, we’re dedicated to helping you find relief. We combine advanced diagnostics with minimally invasive treatments to get you back to doing the things you love—whether that’s hiking a Colorado trail or simply enjoying a pain-free day at home.