Disc Herniation Specialist
-
- Tweet
Raleigh Spine and Pain Center
Daljit S Buttar, MD
Interventional Pain Management Physician & Headache Specialist located in Raleigh, NC & Charlotte, NC
If you struggle with neck discomfort, back pain, or burning pain along your spine, it could be because of disc herniation. At Raleigh Spine and Pain Center in Raleigh and Charlotte, North Carolina, skilled interventional pain management physician Daljit S. Buttar, MD, and his exceptional staff treat pain caused by disc herniation to give you the best quality of life possible. Call the office or book an appointment online today.
Disc Herniation Q&A
What is disc herniation?
Disc herniation, commonly referred to as a herniated disc, is a condition that causes problems with rubbery cushions that support the bones in your spine. Spinal discs contain a jellylike, soft center encased by a rubbery exterior. When discs get herniated or ruptured, pain and pinched nerves often develop.
Treatment at Raleigh Spine and Pain Center can relieve discomfort caused by disc herniation.
What are the symptoms of disc herniation?
If you have disc herniation, you may experience some of the following symptoms:
- Neck pain
- Back pain
- Arm or leg discomfort
- Buttocks pain
- Weakness
- Numbness
- Tingling
- Muscle spasms
- Radiating discomfort
Herniated discs don’t always cause symptoms. However, if you have ongoing or severe symptoms, see the experts at Raleigh Spine and Pain Center for an evaluation.
What are the risk factors for disc herniation?
Disc herniation is common and can happen to anyone, but some factors increase your risk of developing it. Examples include:
- Older age
- Wear-and-tear
- Heavy lifting
- Lifting awkwardly
- Obesity
- Physically demanding job
- Genetics
- Smoking
Complications that can occur with untreated disc herniation include worsening symptoms, bowel or bladder dysfunction, and reduced sensations in your limbs.
Ways to reduce your chance of disc herniation include getting regular exercise, maintaining good posture and healthy body weight, eating nutritious foods, practicing safe lifting techniques, and not smoking.
How does my doctor diagnose disc herniation?
To find out if you have a herniated disc and develop an effective treatment plan, Dr. Buttar discusses your symptoms and medical history with you. He completes a physical exam, including a neurological exam, to assess your muscle strength, walking ability, reflexes, and touch sensations.
Dr. Buttar could recommend that you complete CT scans, X-rays, MRIs, other imaging procedures, and nerve testing to properly diagnose the source of your pain.
What are the common treatments for disc herniation?
Treatments available at Raleigh Spine and Pain Center for disc herniation include:
- Rest
- Over-the-counter medications
- Prescription medications
- Hot or cold compresses
- Physical therapy exercises
- Epidural or corticosteroid injections
- Chiropractic care
- Surgery
About 10 percent of disc herniation cases need surgery to fully eliminate discomfort. Surgical options available at Raleigh Spine and Pain Center include laminotomy, discectomy, arthroplasty, and spinal fusion.
Dr. Buttar lets you know which treatment matches your needs, lifestyle, preferences, and desired outcome. He may remove part or all of a damaged disc, replace it with artificial components, or fuse your vertebra using a metal rod or bone graft.
To find out if you have disc herniation and get the pain relief you deserve, call the Raleigh Spine and Pain Center or schedule an appointment online today.
