Herniated Disc

Between each of your vertebrae is a round, supportive disc that acts as a shock absorber. If the outside of a disc tears and the fluid inside pushes or leaks out, it places pressure on the nerves in your spine, a condition known as a herniated disc. Left untreated, a herniated disc can significantly impact your quality of life. At Coastal Spine & Sports Medicine, PLLC, in Wilmington, North Carolina, Francis Pecoraro, MD, DAPMR, SAAPMR, specializes in treating herniated discs. If you’re experiencing chronic neck or back pain, call the office or use the online booking tool today.

What is a herniated disc?

Your spine consists of a series of small, individual bones known as vertebrae. Your vertebrae sit on top of one another to form your spinal column. 

In between each vertebra is a round cushioning pad called an intervertebral disc. Each of these discs has a soft center, surrounded by a tough, protective layer. 

A herniated disc occurs when pressure from your vertebrae causes the soft center of a disc to push or break through the tough outer layer. If the disc then makes contact with the surrounding nerves in your spine, it causes chronic pain and irritation. Herniated discs can occur anywhere in your spine, from your neck to your lower back.

What are the symptoms of a herniated disc?

Sometimes, herniated discs don’t present any obvious symptoms. However, as the condition progresses, you might experience:

• Pain in your buttocks or legs
• Back pain
• Tingling in your legs and feet
• Muscle weakness
• Pain that radiates into your shoulders, arms, or hands
• Neck pain

The pain caused by a herniated disc varies, but most people describe it as sharp, stabbing, or electric-like. 

What causes a herniated disc to occur?

A herniated disc occurs when the soft center of an intervertebral disc pushes out or breaks through its protective outer layer. However, a number of factors can contribute to this, including the natural aging process, being overweight, or a sudden strain, such as that caused by improper lifting. 

If you suspect you have herniated a disc, it’s important to schedule an appointment at Coastal Spine & Sports Medicine, PLLC, as soon as possible to discuss your treatment options. 

How do you diagnose a herniated disc?

To diagnose a herniated disc, Dr. Pecoraro conducts a physical exam and reviews your medical history. 

He also asks you a series of questions about your symptoms and performs a neurological exam, including testing your reflexes, muscle strength, and response to sensation.

To better evaluate the site of your herniation, Dr. Pecoraro may also order diagnostic imaging tests. Depending on your symptoms, he might recommend an X-ray, CT scan, MRI, or electromyogram (EMG). These tests help your doctor determine the size and location of your herniated disc.

How do you treat a herniated disc?

Treatment for a herniated disc depends on your unique symptoms. However, Coast Spine & Sports Medicine, PLLC, usually recommends conservative measures of care, such as non-opioid pain medications, physical therapy, and spinal injections. 

If these methods of care don’t ease your symptoms, surgical intervention may be necessary. Dr. Pecoraro regularly works with surgeons in the area and can refer you if necessary for a consultation to discuss possible surgical options.

If you suspect you may have a herniated disc, don’t wait to seek treatment. Make an appointment at Coastal Spine & Sports Medicine by calling the office or using the online booking feature today.